What I Learned From Reviewing 970 Remote Job Applications
The last time we posted a Social Media & Community Manager role, we got 970 applications in 10 days. Here’s some tips based on what we saw…
TIP 1: Read the job ad/questions carefully before submitting your application 👀!
One of the requirements was “great attention to detail” and we mentioned that the secret code is 28 and they should answer this in the form. 46% did not do this!
TIP 2: If you’re going to use Chat GPT, make sure you add in some personalisation.
I rejected anyone who had clearly used Chat GPT without personalising it ❌.
One example: “ I look forward to bringing my technical skills and creative strengths to advancing a company’s digital presence in my next opportunity.”
NOPE. Too generic. Be more specific.
TIP 3: Read the question and answer only that question, don’t just write what you want to talk about 🤦!
We didn’t ask for a CV, instead, we just asked a few questions.
One of them: “Summarise your experience according to the 'Attributes/ Skills Required’”.
So many just listed the required skills back to me…
Others just wrote a generic message that didn’t give what was asked for.
TIP 4: Ensure that your LinkedIn aligns with the role you’re applying to ✅!
I saw so many with “Electrical Engineer” or “Data Analyst” or other non-relevant job titles. Yes, I understand that you may be switching careers, but make it clear to the person reading your profile why you may be applying to a different role to your experience.
TIP 5: It’s OK to be a bit cheeky, depending on the audience!
This doesn’t apply to all roles/ companies, but given that my business is called Remote Rebellion and I don’t mind calling people out on their BS, being a bit cheeky can make you stand out.
One application said :
““Sign me up for that newsletter, if for nothing, I can at least roast your CTAs.”
HA HA! Nice job- it got my attention!
Out of the 970 applicants, I ended up hiring the funny and quirky, Gabby Yan, she has done a fantastic job over the past 9 months:
Increased my LinkedIn following from 30,000 to 70,000
Increased my LinkedIn newsletter subscribers by 132%
Successfully launched the Remote Rebellion Community, now with 260+ paying members
Rebranded Remote Rebellion
Spearheaded the revamping of the Remote Rebellion Website
All while working remotely! And people dare say remote work is not productive!! 🙄
Gabby and I working together in person from Bali
Sadly, all good things must come to an end. Gabby will be moving on next year to focus on her sustainable tourism business, for which she recently secured VC funding as a solo female founder! 👏
As you may have seen, we recently advertised this role again, so if we had the pleasure of receiving your application - thank you. We appreciate your interest and the time taken to apply. So many great applicants and we’ll be making a decision later this month!
And if you’re stuck in an office job and want to work remotely, let us help you too.
I WANT A REMOTE JOB!
Stay rebellious,
Michelle
This week’s article is sponsored by Teacher’s Friend. Fulfill your dream of a remote life! Travel the world while making a difference! Teaching English abroad or online opens doors to remote work opportunities. Discover how to get started with Teacher’s Friend.