Over 20 percent of job postings in January of 2023 were remote positions. That's great news for people looking to work from their own home office.
But how do you find and successfully apply for remote jobs? We've got you covered.
Read on to learn how to find a remote job.
There are lots of online resources that host remote job opportunities.
Specialized job boards like Remote.co, We Work Remotely, and FlexJobs list remote opportunities. For specifically Canadian jobs, check out Remote Canada.
Mainstream job search engines with remote filters can help you discover remote roles across industries.
Indeed is one of the premier job search sites out there, and it offers plenty of remote options. Instead of searching by location, search for remote jobs.
If you're looking for jobs in Canada, there are other specific resources out there for you. Workopolis is one major site that offers plenty of remote options. Or, look at Monster Canada.
You should also consider whether or not you're interested in flex jobs. These usually involve spending some amount of time in the office. If you're willing to try a hybrid model, you'll need to look for flex jobs in areas that are accessible to you.
Some industries have their own websites or forums where remote job opportunities are posted. Look for websites dedicated to your field.
Most job search platforms allow you to set up job alerts based on specific criteria. Create alerts for your desired remote job roles and receive notifications when new listings are posted.
There are also different ways you can make sure you get the best possible results when searching online job boards.
When searching online job boards, use specific keywords like "remote," "work from home," "virtual," or "telecommute". That can help you narrow down your search to remote job opportunities.
Subscribe to industry-related blogs and newsletters. These might share remote job listings, insights, and trends.
Participate in online forums, subreddits, and communities dedicated to remote work discussions. These spaces often share job leads and insights.
Leveraging social media platforms is a modern and effective approach to finding remote jobs.
Start by ensuring your social media profiles, particularly on LinkedIn, are professional and up-to-date.
Identify companies that align with your remote work preferences and career goals. Follow their social media accounts, including LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook. Additionally, connect with industry thought leaders and professionals to expand your network.
Join LinkedIn groups, Facebook groups, and online forums focused on remote work or your specific industry.
Participate in different discussions. Ask plenty of questions. Share your experiences. Networking within these groups can lead to job referrals.
Update your LinkedIn headline to include your interest in remote work. This makes it easier for recruiters to identify your preferences when browsing profiles.
Send personalized messages to recruiters, hiring managers, or professionals at companies you're interested in. Express your enthusiasm for remote work and inquire about any open positions or opportunities.
Reach out to recruitment agencies or staffing firms that specialize in remote work placements. They can help match your skills with remote job openings.
Research and identify recruitment agencies or staffing firms that specialize in remote job placements or have a strong presence in your industry. Look for agencies with positive reviews and a track record of successful placements.
Explain your career goals and how remote work works well with your aspirations. Share your preferred industries. Make sure they're aware of your specific skills or experiences.
Ask the recruiter about the remote job market in your chosen industry. Inquire about trends, in-demand skills, and potential challenges associated with remote positions.
Visit the career pages of companies you're interested in, even if they don't explicitly mention remote opportunities. Some companies are open to remote arrangements but may not advertise them widely.
Make a list of companies you're interested in working for. Research companies that suit your values, industry, and remote work preferences.
Learn about the company's culture, values, and remote work policies. This information will help you tailor your application and demonstrate your alignment with their ethos.
Keep in mind the time zone differences when applying for remote jobs. Ensure that the working hours align with your availability.
Many job search websites and platforms allow you to filter job listings by time zone. Use these filters to find remote positions that line up with your preferred working hours.
Some remote jobs offer flexible working hours, allowing you to adjust your schedule to accommodate time zone differences. Clarify if this is an option during the application process.
Depending on your flexibility, consider roles that might require working in a different time zone. This could be especially beneficial if you're comfortable with night shifts or early morning hours.
Consider freelancing platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, or Fiverr to kickstart your remote career.
Working on different projects through freelancing platforms enables you to refine and expand your skill set. As you tackle various assignments, you'll gain experience in different areas. This will make you a more versatile candidate for future roles.
These platforms provide an ideal platform to build your portfolio. Every completed project becomes a showcase of your capabilities. That will help you demonstrate your expertise to potential employers.
As you gain experience and confidence through freelance work, you might find opportunities to transition into more permanent remote roles. Some clients may even offer full-time or ongoing positions based on your performance.
Creating a solid resume is an integral part of ensuring you land the remote job of your dreams.
Begin by crafting a professional summary that highlights your enthusiasm for remote work. This section should grab the reader's attention. It creates the tone for the rest of your resume.
Focus on remote-specific skills. Remote work demands self-motivation, time management, and strong communication abilities. Highlight these skills prominently. You could create a dedicated skills section. Or, just bold them within your job descriptions.
Highlight any previous remote work experience. These instances demonstrate your adaptability to virtual work environments. Include any freelancing, telecommuting, or participation in remote projects.
Illustrate your capacity to work independently. Remote roles often require self-directed work. Highlight experiences where you've taken the initiative. Talk about times you've met goals without constant supervision.
Customize for relevancy. Tailor your resume for each remote job application. Analyze the job description. Match up your skills and experience with the specific requirements.
If you're struggling, bring in the professionals. Hire resume and cover letter writing services to help you create the perfect remote job resume.
Networking serves as a pivotal tool in your pursuit of remote job opportunities.
Firstly, tap into your existing connections. Notify friends, colleagues, and acquaintances about your search for remote work.
Participate in virtual networking events. Industry-specific webinars, online workshops, and virtual conferences offer platforms to connect with professionals from around the world. That can help you learn about remote job openings.
Create an online presence. Blog about your industry. Share your professional journey. Offer insights into remote work challenges and solutions. A well-maintained blog can demonstrate your expertise. That can help you attract remote jobs.
Once you've scored an interview, it's time to start preparing to nail it.
Research the company thoroughly. Showing off this knowledge during the interview shows your interest and preparedness.
Make sure you test your equipment and internet connection before any interview. Choose a quiet, well-lit space for video interviews. Practice responding to common remote work-related questions.
Dress as you would for an in-person interview, even for remote roles. A professional appearance reflects your commitment.
If you've struggled with the interview process in the past, consider interview coaching. These professionals can walk you through the process and help you feel more confident about your prospects.
Utilizing video in your remote job search can be a powerful way to make a memorable impression and showcase your skills.
Create short video introductions that highlight your personality, skills, and genuine interest in remote work. These videos offer a dynamic alternative to traditional cover letters and allow potential employers to connect with you on a more personal level.
Videos provide an opportunity to visually demonstrate your skills. For instance, if you're a graphic designer, record a video showcasing your design process or a walkthrough of your portfolio. This firsthand glimpse into your abilities can set you apart.
Research platforms like YouTube or Vimeo to host and share your videos. Include links to these videos in your resume, portfolio, and LinkedIn profile.
Gather video testimonials from colleagues, supervisors, or clients you've worked with. These testimonials can validate your skills and work ethic, providing additional credibility to your profile.
Now that you know how to find a remote job, there's no time to waste. You should start your job search ASAP.
Do you need help revamping your resume? Contact CareerHD today for all the services you need.
