Just applying for remote jobs is NOT enough – DNS Podcast

In this episode, Michelle had an insightful conversation with Anne Claessen, the host of the Digital Nomad Stories podcast. Anne shared invaluable advice on how to stand out in the competitive world of remote job applications, making it clear what you need to do to land your dream remote role.

Why It’s Harder Than Ever to Land a Remote Job

As remote work has become more mainstream, remote companies often receive hundreds of applications for each position they post. So how can you make sure you’re the one that gets noticed? In 2023, it’s no longer enough to simply apply whenever you see a job listing that fits your skill set. Remote employers are looking for applicants who go beyond the basics and really show what makes them a perfect fit. If you’re serious about landing that dream job, be prepared to do the work upfront.

DNS Podcast (Digital Nomad Stories)

Digital Nomad Stories is a podcast dedicated to exploring the lives of people who’ve embraced the digital nomad lifestyle. It’s filled with real stories of individuals who traded traditional offices for the freedom of remote work. Each episode offers inspiration, practical tips, and insights into the unique challenges of a nomadic lifestyle. The podcast is perfect for those curious about remote work or considering a more flexible, location-independent way of living.

How to Stand Out in a Sea of Applications

When it comes to standing out in a pile of applications, it’s essential to make every part of your application shine. Here are some practical tips to give you a competitive edge.

1. Customize Your Application for Each Job

Many applicants fall into the trap of using the same resume and cover letter for multiple applications. But remote employers want to see a resume tailored to their specific needs. Start by researching the company’s mission, values, and recent projects. Then, highlight the skills and experiences that make you a unique fit for them. Using keywords from the job posting is also critical, as it helps to showcase your alignment with the role. Where possible, give concrete examples of your successes that directly relate to the job’s requirements. Specifics stand out far more than general statements.

2. Polish Your Online Presence

Once you apply, it’s almost certain that the hiring team will look up your LinkedIn profile, personal website, or portfolio. Make sure that these platforms tell a cohesive story about your professional skills and remote work readiness. Your LinkedIn headline, for example, should include keywords relevant to the role you want, and your summary should reinforce that you’re ready to succeed in a remote role. Add any examples of your work, like articles, portfolios, or testimonials, to strengthen your profile. If possible, have a few recommendations from past employers or colleagues; these add instant credibility.

3. Craft a Winning Introduction Email

Your first impression matters, and an engaging, well-written email can make a huge difference. When introducing yourself, keep the tone professional but upbeat. Personalize it by mentioning something specific about the company or job role that attracted you, and make sure your email opens in a way that captures attention right from the start. Briefly outline what you bring to the role and why you’re excited about this particular opportunity. Keep it short, relevant, and memorable.

4. Show You’re a Team Player—Even from Afar

Culture fit is crucial in remote teams, where collaboration depends on communication and a shared work ethic. Highlight any experience you have with distributed teams or remote collaboration tools such as Slack, Asana, or Trello. You could mention projects where you successfully collaborated across time zones or independently managed tasks. Companies want to know that you can be self-motivated and stay connected, even when working remotely.

5. Go the Extra Mile with a Personal Touch

To really make an impression, consider including something extra. This could be a brief video introduction or a project that demonstrates your understanding of the company’s work. For example, if they’re in tech, showcase a small project that mirrors their product or mission. Small personal touches like this not only demonstrate your commitment but also show you’ve done your homework.

Landing a remote job is about creating a clear, memorable story around your professional brand. It’s not just about proving you have the skills; it’s about showing that you’re an engaged, adaptable, and driven candidate who would be a valuable asset to the team.

So take the time to craft each application with care, refine your online presence, and don’t hesitate to showcase your unique strengths. These strategies won’t just help you get noticed—they’ll also help you land a role that aligns with your goals and the life you want to design.