Our Mini Guide To Finding Remote Work
For many, the idea of finding remote work is the dream. You usually have the option to work from wherever you want, including at home. Plus, you might get a flexible schedule, allowing you to work during times that work best for you. It also may be less risky than freelancing, as you can work for a single company and potentially have access to traditional benefits. Luckily, finding remote work has become substantially easier over recent years. If your goal is to find a remote position, here’s our mini-guide that can help you make it happen.
Make Sure Remote Work is Right for You
Some people think that a remote job sounds ideal, but it isn’t actually a great fit for them. If you’re an extrovert, you might find working from home lonely. If you need frequent guidance or feedback, you might not get what you need in these roles.
Similarly, if you aren’t highly self-motivated, you might not remain focused on your work. Additionally, if you don’t have a quiet space to work, distractions – like family, pets, or anything else – might prevent you from excelling.
Ideally, you need to be incredibly self-motivated if you are going to work remotely. Further, you need a suitable workspace and a variety of helpful skills, like time management and written communication, to be effective. Finally, you also need to be comfortable with technology, as remote roles are highly reliant on computers, smartphones, and various applications.
Prep Your Resume
Like any other job opportunity, you’re going to need to submit a resume or application if you apply for a remote position. Consider prepping your resume in advance based on today’s trends. For example, include an engaging professional summary and focus on your accomplishments, not just your duties. Additionally, quantify details when possible, as numbers can help you stand out and draw the hiring manager’s eye.
Even in cases where you don’t need a resume, it’s helpful to have one ready. For example, some remote job websites only require you to build a profile, but you can use your resume to ensure you cover the right experiences when filling it out.
Create an Elevator Pitch
Depending on the application process, you might also need to present a short pitch when you apply. Usually, this is a summary of why you are an excellent candidate, not unlike a traditional cover letter. It just tends to be shorter and more refined.
Consider how you can showcase your capabilities in just a handful of sentences. Then, write it down to use as a framework. While you’ll want to customize each pitch, having one ready gives you a template you can essentially adapt.
Skip the Major Job Boards
Some of the biggest job boards around, like Indeed and CareerBuilder, do list remote jobs. The issue is, the sites are incredibly popular. Companies get slews of applications, including a mix of qualified candidates and people who aren’t really capable of handling the work.
As a result, you’ll face tougher competition or might have trouble standing out from the sea of other applicants. Usually, you’ll be better off on a niche site if finding remote work is your goal.
Head to Site that Focuses on Finding Remote Work
Certain job websites focus on remote opportunities. While competition can still be tough, you’ll have an easier time finding jobs that might be a fit.
Here are a few sites that focus on helping professionals find remote work:
Some freelancer sites are also viable options for finding remote work. While you’ll find a mix of short- and long-term opportunities, these websites are worth exploring as well:
Start Finding Remote Work
After you prep your resume, write your elevator pitch, and build profiles on remote job sites, it’s time to start applying. Just search for positions based on the kinds of positions you want to find, and follow the instructions to apply.
Like any job search, it can take time to land your ideal role. But, with the tips above, you can potentially expedite the process.
Do you have tips that can help someone find remote work? Share them in the comments below.
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