Tools To Get You Started On Your WAHM Journey!

I decided to make a new post since my laptop got damaged last Tuesday. The screen broke (don't get me started), and I'm using my old monitor for display since I don't want my work to be interrupted.

Yep, the screen is broken!

I know my desk is messy! Please don't mind the writings on the wall. They are "artworks" of my kids.

Anyway, this is about what tools you'll need to get you started in your WAHM journey. And since I'm currently looking for a new replacement laptop (my boss will shoulder most of the cost, thank God!), I'll share the laptop specs needed for any basic home-based job.

Update: Here's the new laptop I bought that was sponsored by my boss!

Here are the most basic tools/equipment you'll need to start your home-based career:







1. Personal Computer 


This can either be a desktop or a laptop. I prefer using a laptop since I often travel to my husband's province for short vacays with my kids. I always bring work with me since no work = no pay. 


These are the specs you can use as a guide when purchasing your computer:

• At least i3 Processor (but if you have the funds, get i5 or better yet, i7)
• At least 2GB RAM (although the new one I'm getting is 4GB RAM)
• At least 500 GB memory (go for 1TB if you need more memory)
• At least 2GB Graphics card (I don't like those that are integrated in the MoBo, I prefer lappies with their own Graphics card)
• At least 13" screen (it's hard to work with a small screen)

For other specs like webcam, DVD burner, etc, it will be up to your preference and budget. A laptop with decent specs costs around 20-30k PhP. This is already a good investment since you can earn this money back in just a month or two, depending on what job you do. 

**No clients would take you seriously if you tell them you'll be using tablets or smartphones.**

2. Wired Internet Connection

This is a must and most often, non-negotiable. There are a lot of online jobs available, but most of them involves talking to the clients via Skype. If your internet is intermittent (especially when you are using a wireless internet connection), the clients will know. Wireless internet, from using USB sticks or pocket WiFi, should  only be used as a backup, or if your job really doesn't need you to take in calls or download a lot of files. 








3. Work-related Software

Most clients expect you to already have Excel and Word, so it's best to invest in them, too. Not all clients are generous enough to shoulder the cost of  the software you'll need, but they should be the one to cover for those software that are special to their needs (Freshbooks, Time Doctor, etc).





4. Accessories

You'll need headset and webcam, but most often than not,  you'll only need them  at the beginning for interviews via video call. The headset must  have a noise-cancelling feature, so no unnecessary noises will be caught by the client, and preferably wireless, to allow yourself to move around while taking in calls (if you're a CSR or a receptionist).

These four can already get you started in your WAHM journey. What did you have when you started? Do you have anymore to add? Let me know in the comments section!