Using a Computer

Reality (Who this may fit)

Home bound, Re-Entry, Prefer working alone
Re-Entry, Disabled, 55 and over, Night Owl, haven’t 
been working, want something to do, and you

A computer can be a tool, not just a screen

Computer work can get real
technical

You don’t need coding, programming, or advanced technical skills to get started.. Know what you can do, if that’s just typing, then you have a foot in the door. Often times, the busiest key you’ll use is the tab key, and the most difficult function will be copy/paste. Computer work also involves the Internet, and that’s more reading, and reviewing than writing code.

I only know how to type

Make a list of what you can’t do. You may find it’s a short list. Many digital tasks are little more than typing, copying, pasting, organizing information, and following instructions.

I can’t type fast

The one-finger typing won’t cut it in an office, but you’re working from home, As long as you know where the keys are, then you can pick up speed. Plenty of people type 40 wpm and get the work done. The work just needs to be completed.

Who Needs This

  • Small businesses
  • Contractors
  • Real estate agents
  • Local service businesses
  • Newsletters
  • One-person offices
  • Coaches and consultants
  • Nonprofits
  • Busy professionals

 Email Management.        Setup Time: A few hours

Some people receive more emails than they can keep up with. They need help sorting messages, organizing folders, flagging important items, deleting spam, and keeping their inbox manageable. The work requires attention to detail, organization, and the ability to follow instructions.

On-Line Re-posting.        Setup Time: A few hours

Businesses, organizations, and individuals often have information they want shared in more than one place. This may include listings, announcements, events, products, services, or social media content. The work involves taking existing information and posting it where it needs to go. It’s simple, repetitive, and ideal for someone comfortable working online.

On-line Research.        Setup Time: Very little

People need information, but they don’t always have the time to find it. Online research involves locating information, comparing options, gathering details, and presenting findings in a useful way. The work may involve products, services, locations, prices, resources, or answers to specific questions. If you’re naturally curious and enjoy finding things online, this can be a useful skill.

TAKE THE NEXT STEP

  • Decide what computer service you’ll offer.
  • Practice writing one clear email.
  • Create one sample online post.
  • Research three local businesses that may need help.
  • Make a list of people to contact.

 

  • Organize your files before you begin.
  • Keep notes on every client and request.
  • Follow up after sending an email.
  • Ask one person if they need computer help.
  • Start with one small project.

Who Pays

Small businesses, independent professionals, and busy individuals often pay for help with digital tasks, organization, research, and administrative work.

Ways To Earn More

  • Create files and templates
  • Maintain digital records
  • Research information
  • Update websites
  • Organize documents
  • Create newsletters
  • Manage listings
  • Offer recurring monthly support

What This Work Can Lead to/Related Work

Data Entry
Resume Formatting
On-Line Marketplace Listing
Virtual assistance 
administration
research services

Smart Moves

  • Learn keyboard shortcuts
  • Create samples of your work
  • Keep organized folders
  • Continue free learning through Google and YouTube

Take Inventory – You’re More Capable Than You Think

Do you spend a lot of time on the computer? Can you follow instructions? Are you comfortable learning new software? Can you organize information, files, and documents? Do you enjoy solving small problems? If so, computer-based work may be a good fit.

Guess What?

This work isn’t going away. Computers, apps, websites, and digital records are part of everyday life. Many people use them every day but still need help getting things organized, completed, or working properly. And some people don’t know how to use the computer at all. 

Activation Support

If you know what you want to do but need help finding clients, pricing your service, or getting started, check out Activation Support.

Find out here.

Activation Support

Setup Time & What it Takes

Setup can begin from your computer. Create a simple service, a sample if needed, and start reaching out. Email, phone calls, social media, and local networking can all lead to opportunities. Many people need digital help but don’t know who to ask.

Back to the Basement

Page updated: July 6th, 2026