Here are our picks:
1. Radio DJ
Talk about the latest celebrity gossip, share your opinions with the world, participate in on-air antics. Doesn’t sound like a hard day’s work. Many radio personalities went to school to get a bachelor’s degree in communications or something similar, but some manage to get by on their charms alone. Average salaries are $23,807 to $43,642 nationwide, but really, the opportunities are endless. Look at celebrity radio hosts such as Howard Stern and Don Imus. If you’ve got the personality, you could become a star. If not, at least you’ve got an easy job chatting with colleagues and listening to tunes.
2. Freelance Writer
English isn’t one of the most popular undergrad majors for no reason: Seems like almost everyone shares a bit of the writing bug. Maybe you like writing short stories, or perhaps you prefer short stories. Maybe you fancy yourself the next David Sedaris, or George Will. Whatever the case may be, there are endless opportunities for writers in a range of mediums. For some, a bachelor’s degree in English or a related field will get you in the door, but for most, your chances boil down to your writing ability. Potential employers will ask for writing samples, and if they like what they see, chances are that you’ll be hired. The life of a freelance writer includes working from home, writing on multiple subjects and making your own schedule. Average salaries are $27,000 to $49,000, but how much you make depends on your ability and a little on luck. You’ll have to have a bit of ingenuity or perseverance to find the jobs.
3. Personal Shopper
It may sound like a made-up job that only exists in the realm of celebrities indulging their whims (um, personal umbrella holder?), but this is a real job that can become a long-term career. Personal shoppers can work for corporations or individuals, shopping for anything from product lines to executive and personal gifts. They can shop for gift bags and other favors for fundraisers and other corporate events. There is no education required to become a personal shopper, and you can start building experience through volunteer and “freelance” activities. And you can expect to have enough to do your own fair share of shopping: Salaries range from $30,000 to $57,000 per year.
4. Driver
Whether it be a personal driver, delivery driver, or long-haul driver, there are numerous opportunities if what you like is a life on the road. The job couldn’t be easier: Sit behind the wheel, remain alert, cruise the radio for good songs, maybe make the occasional small talk if you have a passenger, drop off your load if you have one, repeat, go home. Salaries vary according to what kind of a driver you are, but truck drivers can make up to $50,000 per year. The only education you’ll need is to study for your driving test.