Work-From-Home Job Spotlight: Circulation Manager

Each Thursday, I’m highlighting a work-from-home job or business.


Job Description: A circulation manager handles the subscription and customer service duties of a publication, such as magazine and newspaper.

Education: None required, but a bachelor’s degree will probably be preferred.

Skills: The ability to manage and update databases. Also, some marketing skills will likely be a plus because some circulation managers are tasked with growing the subscriber base.

Job outlook: As more companies seek to outsource data entry-type jobs, circulation management jobs from home will probably become more likely. However, some analysts believe that magazines and other publications will not growing or expanding as in years’ past. But the good news is that webzines and other web publications will have a need for online circulation management as more news sites and others move to fee-based content.

Possible employers: Magazines, publications and newsletters, both print and online, need circulation managers. Associations, churches, and nonprofit organizations would be good places to start because they will probably be interested in off-site, contract workers.

Preparation: Brush up on your subscription marketing skills. Also be sure you’re familiar with the latest in subscriber database software. Knowing how online publications manage content would be a plus.

Get your foot in the door: Make a list of the publications that interest you and send emails or letters asking about work-from-home opportunities in circulation. Also ask about temping for a while if the company wants a trial.

Testimony: “I had always thought that my ideal job would be flexible and allow me to use my English degree as I worked from home on a part-time basis,” says Valerie of her subscription and customer service job for a Protestant denominational magazine.

Until next time,

Sarah