Teacher burnout is a real thing! Working in education can be so draining and I know I got to the point that I wanted out!! But what do you do if you aren’t in a classroom? I am going to share with you my list of online Jobs for teachers transitioning out of the classroom.
As a teacher, you’ve developed a wide range of skills that can be incredibly valuable in the online job market. If you’re considering a career change from teaching to a remote role, you’re in luck—many of the skills you’ve honed in the classroom translate seamlessly to online work.
When I first wanted to leave teaching I was looking for jobs in the local area that would match the money of teaching but the hours sucked! I didn’t want to go into a workplace and work long hours again. Once I discovered working online I didn’t look back! We make the best Virtual Assistants as we are so organized and flexible! We can be proofreaders, editors, writers and more!
9 Online Jobs for Teachers Transitioning Out of the Classroom
Here are nine of my favorite online job options that are ideal for teachers looking to make a career transition.
1. Virtual Assistant (VA)
As a Virtual Assistant, you’ll provide administrative support to businesses or entrepreneurs. Tasks might include managing emails, scheduling appointments, and handling customer inquiries.
Why It’s a Good Fit
Your experience in organization, scheduling, and communication makes you well-suited for this role. VAs need strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently.
How to Get Started
Create a profile on platforms like Upwork, Belay, and Time Etc. to start applying for VA positions. Highlight your organizational skills and experience in managing tasks. You can also take a short course in Becoming a VA- this helps you know the skills and expectations.
2. Freelance Writer
Freelance writers create content for blogs, websites, and various publications. This could include articles, blog posts, or educational materials.
Why It’s a Good Fit
Your experience in creating lesson plans and explaining complex concepts can translate into writing clear and engaging content. Your ability to research and structure information is also a strong asset.
How to Get Started
Join platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer. Build a portfolio showcasing your writing skills, and consider writing sample articles to demonstrate your expertise.
3. Transcriptionist
Transcriptionists convert audio or video recordings into written text. This role requires excellent listening and typing skills.
Why It’s a Good Fit
Your attention to detail and ability to follow instructions closely make transcription a natural fit. The job often requires patience and accuracy, skills that teachers frequently use. This is one of my favorites as I love learning while I work.
How to Get Started
Find transcription jobs on Rev, TranscribeMe, and Scribie. Practice transcribing sample audio to improve your skills and increase your chances of landing a job. Or take a short course to learn the specialized skills for transcription.
4. Social Media Content Manager
As a Social Media Content Manager, you’ll create and manage content for various social media platforms. This includes crafting posts, scheduling updates, and engaging with followers.
Why It’s a Good Fit
Your skills in communication and understanding of audience engagement are crucial here. Your ability to create educational materials can translate into compelling social media content.
How to Get Started
Look for opportunities on job boards like Indeed and LinkedIn, or explore freelance platforms like Upwork. Build a portfolio showcasing any social media work you’ve done, even if it was for personal or school-related projects.
5. Copywriter
Copywriters create persuasive content designed to market products or services. This could include website copy, advertisements, or promotional materials.
Why It’s a Good Fit
Your experience in crafting engaging lesson plans and presentations can translate into effective marketing copy. Understanding how to tailor messages to different audiences is key. Hint hint we are really good copywriters!
How to Get Started
Explore freelance opportunities on Fiverr, 99designs, and Copywriting.com. Develop a portfolio with examples of your copywriting work, and consider taking a course in copywriting to enhance your skills.
6. Online Tutor
Online tutors provide academic support to students in various subjects through virtual platforms. This could involve one-on-one tutoring or leading small group sessions. Tutoring can come in various ways including teaching English as a Second Language (ESL)
Why It’s a Good Fit
Your teaching experience is directly applicable here. You already have expertise in explaining concepts and helping students understand material, which is perfect for tutoring. If moving towards tutoring in ESL you may need further skills.
How to Get Started
Join tutoring platforms like VIPKid, Chegg Tutors, and Wyzant. You can also offer your services independently through social media and your network.
7. Course Writer
Course writers develop educational content for online courses. This could involve creating course materials, quizzes, and assignments.
Why It’s a Good Fit
Your experience in designing lesson plans and developing curriculum can be directly applied to creating comprehensive online courses. This role allows you to leverage your educational expertise in a new way.
How to Get Started
Look for opportunities on platforms like Udemy and Teachable, or connect with educational companies and course creators. Build a portfolio of sample course materials to showcase your abilities.
8. Instructional Designer
Instructional designers create educational programs and materials, focusing on how to best deliver content to learners.
Why It’s a Good Fit
Your skills in lesson planning and curriculum development make you an ideal candidate for this role. Instructional design involves designing effective learning experiences, something you’ve already been doing as a teacher.
How to Get Started
Explore job boards like Indeed and LinkedIn for instructional design positions. Consider taking a certification course in instructional design to strengthen your qualifications.
9. Educational Consultant
Educational consultants provide advice and support to educational institutions or individuals. This can include developing educational strategies, advising on curriculum, or helping students with academic planning.
Why It’s a Good Fit
Your deep understanding of educational practices and student needs makes you a valuable asset. Consultants use their expertise to improve educational outcomes, a role that aligns well with your background.
How to Get Started
Network with educational institutions and consultancies, and explore opportunities on job boards and LinkedIn. Consider building a professional website or blog to showcase your expertise.
Tips for Transitioning from Teaching to Online Work
1. Leverage Your Existing Skills
Many of the skills you developed as a teacher, such as organization, communication, and instructional design, are highly transferable to online roles. Highlight these skills in your job applications and profiles.
2. Update Your Resume and Online Profiles
Tailor your resume and online profiles to emphasize your skills and experience relevant to online jobs. Include any freelance or part-time work you’ve done, and showcase your achievements.
3. Build a Portfolio
For roles like writing, design, and course creation, a strong portfolio can make a significant difference. Create samples of your work to demonstrate your capabilities to potential employers or clients.
4. Network with Other Professionals
Join online communities and forums related to your desired field. Networking can provide valuable insights, job leads, and support during your transition.
5. Consider Further Training
If you’re moving into a new field, such as copywriting, proofreading or social media management, consider taking online courses or earning certifications to boost your skills and credibility.
Ready To Leave Teaching?
Transitioning from teaching to an online career can open up exciting new opportunities. By leveraging your existing skills and exploring these nine online job options, you can successfully make the switch and find a fulfilling new career path. Online jobs for teachers transitioning out of the classroom are a wide array of opportunities! Just like we encourage our students to step outside their comfort zones and try new things we must as well.
You can start doing these jobs on the side as side hustles and then transition out of your teaching role. It can feel hard at first, but is worth it, especially if you are looking for a new lifestyle after burnout or to prevent it! Your mindset will need to shift as well as you transition from teaching to working online. Be kind to yourself and keep going, you got this!!
Start exploring these roles and take the first step towards your new career and new lifestyle!!
