The career and job considerations for single moms are quite different from those of other moms. Things like paid vacations, flexible schedules, good pay, and predictable work schedules become important when you have to think about fitting your work around your life and kids. This is why career and job options can be limited for single moms because most of them do not fit their needs. However, there are some great career and job options that are perfect for single moms.
Sales
Sales positions are not usually on the list of jobs for single moms, but they are great if you are one. This is because the pay is based on commission which means you can work as much or as little as you want depending on what is going on at home. For example, if you need more money for a gift or your kids, you can increase your efforts to make more.
Also, much of the work required for a sales job can be done from home. This can allow you to spend more time with your kid(s), which is especially important if you are a new single mom.
Realtor
Real estate agents bring sellers and buyers together and make money on the sale of different types of properties. While you may need great communication and negotiation skills to solicit potential clients, as well as an understanding of the housing market, a career in real estate is not as demanding as most other careers.
While some real estate agents work long hours, especially when they need to close a huge sale, most can set their own schedules. As with sales jobs, most of a real estate agent’s work can be done from home, with them only needing to go out to meet clients or assess properties.
Graphic Design
Graphic designers are tasked with creating visual materials that convey a certain message. The materials they create can be illustrations, covers, or marketing material for businesses. A career in graphic design is great due to flexibility and the availability of learning material. Graphic designers can choose to go full-time, part-time, or freelance. If you are looking to keep this as a career, you can always apply for office jobs where you will get to work with a single client.
Graphic designers can work at home and you can also decide to move away from graphic design once you are ready to go back to your old job or start a new one.
Nursing
If you have kids, then nursing is a great career option for you! You already have the skills and temperament required to take care of others. Although there are lots of healthcare jobs that would be a great fit for single moms, nursing is a lot better than most of them. This is because of its flexible hours (which can allow you to spend more time with your kids, or to schedule your work around important events), good pay, job security. Additionally, getting into nursing is straightforward if you enroll in an online program.
While traditional online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs allow you to learn at your own pace, they still take 4 years. If you do not want to wait that long, you can enroll in an online accelerated BSN program. Online accelerated BSN programs teach you the skills you require to become a nurse and can be completed in as little as one year.
BSN degrees are becoming the standard in nursing, with platforms like Online ABSN Programs allowing you to learn everything you need to know about different online accelerated BSN programs, and making it easier to find the best program to enroll in.
Preschool Teacher
Preschool teachers are tasked with educating and caring for young kids, usually children younger than five. If you have young kids, you already have what it takes to take care of preschool kids. Preschool teachers are always in demand and the role is a great option for single moms because experience dealing with your kids puts you in a better position to be hired as one.
Additionally, working as a preschool teacher means that you will have a predictable schedule, which is great for a single mom.
Fitness Trainer
The fitness trainer industry is growing very fast and could be a great option for single moms looking to stay in shape while helping others do the same. Because many fitness trainers are self-employed, you can benefit from a flexible schedule and favorable working hours.
If you are motivated enough, you can also combine fitness training with personal training and yoga. Both of these options come with the same flexibility and good pay potential.
Virtual Assistant
Virtual assistants provide support for both individuals and businesses. The job descriptions and responsibilities of virtual assistants can vary widely depending on the person or business they work for. Generally, they schedule and answer calls and emails, schedule social media posts, undertake data entry work and so much more.
The work of a virtual assistant is specific to the client you are serving, and this is why you should be flexible enough to handle everything asked of you. You might be required to keep regular office hours or work overtime depending on your clients’ needs.
Entrepreneurship
Entrepreneurship is a great option for single moms for most of the same reasons all the job options are. Whether you can create products to sell or are looking to start any type of business, there are lots of resources available to you. Going your own way also means you will not have a boss to answer to, which will give you additional time to spend with your kids. Single moms can also join hands with other single moms to get advice, divide resources and help each other succeed.
Starting a new job or career as a single mother can be difficult, especially for moms who cannot hire a nanny. However, there are lots of jobs and career options that give you the flexibility and freedom to succeed as both a mom and a career woman.