After almost a year into the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s clear the virus has upended the way we work. Safety measures like quarantines and lockdowns have prompted more employees to work from home than ever before; one study found that the number of employees working remotely has doubled since mid-March 2020. Employer surveys indicate this trend will likely continue even after restrictions are lifted.
Companies and professionals have adapted to remote work arrangements in creative ways—but how do you land that perfect remote job in the first place? Here are 6 tips to help with your remote job search:
Focus on an industry already well-suited to remote work.
You might kickstart your job search by targeting an industry with a high built-in potential for offering remote work. These include Information Technology; Software Development; Customer Support & Client Services; Scientific & Technical Services; Communications & Marketing; Design; Finance, Insurance, & Accounting; Research & Data analysis; Online Education & Counseling; and Administrative Support.
Take advantage of job boards, especially those specifically for remote work.
WeWorkRemotely, FlexJobs, and Remote.Co are valuable hubs of remote job opportunities that also offer supportive online communities for remote workers to share information and advice. Major job boards like Indeed, Monster, CareerBuilder, LinkedIn are also great places to peruse remote positions; just set your location preference to “remote” in the search field.
Market your most remote-friendly professional experience.
When updating your resume, highlight the job skills that would help you succeed in a remote position. These include working with computers; familiarity with software; analyzing information; identifying process improvements; taking initiative to problem solve; performing administrative activities; training, teaching, or coaching others; establishing relationships; monitoring processes; and marketing products or services.
Consider how you’ll show productivity and accountability.
While some companies have developed methods to ensure their employees are productive even while at home, there may not always be clear benchmarks for remote employees to show they’re staying on task. Your cover letter is an ideal place to promote the “soft skills” and personality traits that will make you an accountable remote worker. These may include being self-directed and organized, possessing excellent time management and communication skills, or the ability to learn new things quickly and independently.
Start preparing for remote work now.
Think about what would position you for remote work success. This may include steps like investing in upgraded computer accessories or a better desk setup, or re-structuring your daily routines to accommodate working from home. LinkedIn Learning offers courses in preparing for remote learning that focus on key concepts like managing virtual teams, leading conference calls, and improving productivity. Listing professional development courses on a resume is a great way to show proactivity— an essential trait for a remote employee!
Let us help!
Preparing for any job search isn’t easy, but the good news is that you don’t have to go about it alone. If you need help with interview preparation, career coaching, or marketing yourself to employers by creating a great resume, cover letter, or LinkedIn profile, contact the career consultants at Resume Spice today.
