Home-Based freelance telemarketer

Small and medium businesses, trades, local service firms, market research companies and community groups that lack time to phone prospects themselves.

An hourly rate, or a fee per appointment booked or survey completed. Some clients combine a lower hourly rate with a bonus per result.

• Clear, friendly phone manner
• Handling rejection calmly
• Following a script while sounding natural
• Accurate record keeping

• Check ACMA's rules, including the Do Not Call Register, permitted calling times and the requirement to identify yourself and the client
• Research calls and sales calls are treated differently, so check which rules apply to each job
• Check privacy obligations for handling client lead lists and call notes
• Check whether your local council needs approval for a home-based business
• Get an ABN, and check whether public liability or professional indemnity insurance suits your clients
• Pay-per-result work can mean uneven income, so agree terms in writing

Startup costs are typically around $500 to $2,500, depending on your home office equipment and phone setup. You would also need an ABN and should check which insurance suits your clients.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on the hours you work and the clients you win. Pay-per-result work can mean uneven income, so agree terms in writing.

Check ACMA's rules, including the Do Not Call Register, permitted calling times and identifying yourself and your client. Research and sales calls are treated differently, so check which apply, plus privacy obligations for lead lists.