With the U.S. unemployment rate at an all time high since the recessionary ‘80s, the world of the home based Internet opportunity is where more unemployed and laid-off workers are turning to as a source of income. Without the added expenses associated with traditional storefronts, running a home based Internet business may be just what you’re looking for to make ends meet while you look for a new job – it may even replace the job you lost.

Internet Opportunity: Find Your Niche

The key to running a successful home based Internet business is to find a niche. Consider the talents and skills you have. Then assess what need in the market is not being fulfilled or where there is a great demand but little in the way of suppliers. Match your talents, skills and experience with those unfulfilled needs and come up with a way to fill them.

For example, a laid-off employee started a new job board online to connect the unemployed with employers. After five years in business, he is earning more with his job board than he was at his previous full-time employment job.

The U.S. Department of Labor produces a job outlook report each year. Some of the fastest growing occupations on the list that you may be able to provide with your own home based business include:

•    Computer engineers
•    Computer support specialists
•    Database administrators
•    Desktop publishing specialists
•    Paralegals
•    System analysts
Other growing fields of Internet businesses include:
•    Marketing and advertising services
•    Social media networking consultants
•    Virtual assistants
•    Graphic and web designers

While this is by no means a comprehensive list, consider the options listed here as well as conducting some research on your own. Determine if your skill set, experience and passion fall within any of these fields. Then work toward your goal of transitioning from unemployed to working a home based Internet opportunity.