5 top tips for landing a remote job 🔮
I didn’t always work remotely. I’ve done ‘my time’ in the office.
I’ve worked in recruitment since 2013. I’ve helped hundreds of people get jobs in Europe, the USA, Singapore, and Australia in all kinds of positions from Project Managers, Designers, Developers to Heads of Marketing.
I joined a digital agency as an in-house recruiter in 2016 and was required in the London office 5 days a week. This was the ‘norm’ then and even asking to work remotely wasn’t something people did very often. I was good at my job and enjoyed it. I loved the people I worked with and had a pretty sweet office environment, but I hated being 'stuck' to one location.
So in 2017, I encouraged the company to allow people to work remotely up to 4 days a week. It not only improved productivity, but it reduced sick days and also meant we could hire more easily.
Later in 2018, I convinced them to give me a 'trial run' to work fully remote for 5 weeks whilst I travelled through Peru and Bolivia. It was a success, for both parties, but my employer didn't want to encourage others to do the same in case they weren't as productive. FEAR is one of the biggest reasons (IMHO) why most employers that can, but do not, offer remote work. EGO is the other!
When I got a second taste of 100% remote In 2020, I knew I didn't want to go back to office life. So I quit my job and now I'm helping others to find a remote job so that they can live a life with freedom and flexibility.
Want to know how you can do the same? Let’s begin with the 5 top tips for how to get a remote job this year… or even this month!
1. Get ready to leave your job
Finding a remote job is already a full-time job. Assuming that you have the financial means to support yourself and any dependents for a few months, don't stay in a job that is making you miserable. Invest the time to reach your ideal lifestyle!
2. Tailor your CV and cover letter to each remote job
Using the same keywords as the job posting on your CV and cover letter will help you stand out from the competition. Emphasise your relevant experience for the remote job you are applying for. And always proofread!
3. Network, network & network
Networking and getting referrals are great ways to find a job. It may seem obvious, but reaching out to people you already know can help you meet other professionals in your field and/or industry. Use LinkedIn for networking and proactively reach out to connections.
4. Follow up if you don’t hear anything
Writing a follow-up email if you don’t hear anything from the recruiter in two weeks is absolutely fine! Tell the recruiter that you’re still interested in the remote role and you’d love to know if there have been any updates.
5. Gain remote experience by freelancing
Picking up a remote side hustle or part-time job to gain experience working remotely is a great way to answer with “yes” when asked if you’ve worked remotely before. For example, you can start by joining Work For Impact! Work for Impact is an all-in-one freelance hiring platform for purposeful people and projects.
Would you like to learn more about how to land a remote job successfully? Check out my coaching programme here.
And here are more remote roles for you to check out
Happy Hump Day!
Michelle