6 flexible job options for parents in 2024 & why they work
In the quest for the perfect balance between work and family life, parents are on the lookout for jobs that offer flexibility. We've gathered insights from Directors of Content and CEOs to provide you with a range of options. From embracing fractional employment to considering marketing jobs with remote flexibility, discover the top six job recommendations for parents in 2024.
Embrace Fractional Employment
Identify Flexible Employers
Explore Remote Language Tutoring Opportunities
Try Virtual Customer Support Specialist
Jump into Freelancing for Parental Flexibility
Consider Marketing Jobs with Remote Flexibility
Embrace Fractional Employment
There is a lot of opportunity working as a "fractional" employee, where you fill a position for a company at a significantly lower cost than a full-time team member.
When you work as a fractional employee for two companies, you end up with a similar compensation package as you would receive full-time, but with more flexibility. Fractional CMOs, SEOs, and content directors are just a few of the many positions that exist for fractional employees.
Jason Vaught, Director of Content, SmashBrand
Identify Flexible Employers
As the workplace recalibrates following the height of the pandemic, parents need to understand that it really isn't about finding the “best jobs” for flexibility, as there are too many variables within industries and companies.
There are some jobs that seem to lend themselves to greater flexibility, such as ones with more independent responsibilities that aren't tied to tight timelines or other colleagues, but if those positions are at employers who have standardized working hours, no matter what the role, they won't have the ability to adjust hours.
On the other hand, parents might find jobs that “on paper” seem more rigid but are with companies that are proponents of giving employees autonomy to get their work done when it fits into their life. Instead of looking for the “best jobs,” parents should start by identifying employers who support employee flexibility, and then search for positions within that organization.
Denise Fowler, Founder and Career Coach, Career Happiness Coaching
Explore Remote Language Tutoring Opportunities
In 2024, one of the best jobs offering flexibility for parents could be remote language tutoring. I understand firsthand how rewarding this role is.
Parents can schedule lessons around family commitments, enjoy intellectual stimulation, and experience the fulfillment of helping others grasp a new language. All you need is expertise in a language and a digital platform to connect with students worldwide. This flexibility and the joy of nurturing global connections make it a fantastic choice.
Nooran Zafarmand, Co-Founder and CEO, Japamana
Try Virtual Customer Support Specialist
In 2024, one of the best job options for parents seeking flexibility is a "Remote Customer Support Specialist" or "Virtual Customer Service Representative." The ongoing trend of remote work is likely to persist, and customer support roles have increasingly adapted to this remote model. This transition allows parents to work from the comfort of their homes, aligning work hours with family responsibilities.
These roles offer flexibility in terms of work schedules, making it easier for parents to choose shifts that accommodate their family needs, whether that means working during school hours or during the evenings when children are asleep. Moreover, many companies provide part-time or contract options, allowing parents to work a reduced number of hours while still earning income. With a variety of industries offering remote customer support positions, parents have the opportunity to find a role that matches their skills and interests.
Overall, the combination of remote work, flexible schedules, and diverse industry options in customer support roles makes them an attractive choice for parents in 2024 who seek to balance their professional and family lives effectively.
Madison T, Ecommerce Manager, My Supplement Store
Jump into Freelancing for Parental Flexibility
One of the best jobs for a parent seeking flexibility is freelancing or consulting in a field that aligns with their expertise. This allows parents to set their own schedules, work from home, and take on projects based on their availability. Freelancing provides the autonomy needed to balance work and family responsibilities effectively.
John Frigo, Ecommerce Manager, Best Price Nutrition
Consider Marketing Jobs with Remote Flexibility
Marketing and advertising jobs are really good for this. Find a business that works remotely and gives you the flexibility to handle your parenting responsibilities. A few people on our team are parents, and it totally works.
Robert Brill, CEO, Brill Media
From your podcast host Andrea
Andrea Barr is a certified career coach, strategist, and workshop facilitator. After establishing herself in the advertising sector early in her career, she made a shift to learning and development within the corporate world. As a new mother, she was struck by a lack of support for parents looking to find a balance between their career ambitions and family lives, and decided to fill that gap. Andrea offers support and solutions for parents who want to advance their careers without compromising what matters most: their families.
