Remote work is here to stay. According to an article by Forbes, 61% of workers prefer working remotely and 97% do not want to return to the office full-time. The ability to work remotely saves employees money and time as they no longer need to commute and usually eat at home. Although managing a remote workforce does have its challenges, employers are saving too as they no longer need to maintain as much office space.
This is all good news for those that are already reaping the benefits of working remotely. However, if you aren’t currently working remotely but would like to, how do you find the perfect remote position for you?
Five ways to improve your chances of getting hired remote work
With a little tweaking, many of the job-hunting skills you used to find regular jobs can work to find remote positions as well. Here are just a few tips that can help you be ready to land your next remote gig.
1. Build your LinkedIn profile
Having a complete LinkedIn profile is like having an agent working on your behalf. When you have added all your skills and certifications the search engine will help potential employers to find you.
In LinkedIn job postings the employer often lists the skills they are looking for in a candidate. This is a good way to see what types of skills remote employers are looking for that you may not have thought of. If you possess these skills you can add them to your profile making it more attractive to potential employers.
2. Update your resume
If you already have a strong LinkedIn profile, why would you bother to update your resume? Attracting an employer’s interest is only the first half of landing the job. Most employers and recruiters will still request a traditional resume when making initial contact with you. If you already have one prepared and ready to send them on request, it makes you appear efficient and organized.
There are plenty of resources on the web to point you in the right direction for crafting a new resume. For example, Google Docs offers many free templates for modern-looking resumes that will impress and that are quick and easy to set up.
3. Be prepared for a background check
In today’s remote world, most employers do the best background check they can. Background checks are now a routine part of the hiring process. Without having met you in person, remote employers need to be able to verify your identity and qualifications.
4. Build a portfolio site
Having a portfolio site isn’t a necessity for all professions. However, having a portfolio website, especially for creative types, is a great way to show potential employers what you are capable of. Maintaining a site is easier and less expensive than ever, and demonstrates that you are serious about your chosen profession.
5. Approach your future employer
In the old days, if you wanted a job at, for example, a law firm, you would open up the yellow pages and get on the phone. Phoning each firm and asking to speak with the hiring manager. Obviously, this isn’t standard practice today, but the advice to be proactive still applies. Visiting a company website or finding the email address of the human resources department doesn’t take too much work. In this way, you can target the companies you want to work at rather than waiting for them to find you.
Once you have made a list of companies that hire remotely, send them your resume or fill out their application form. Even if they are not actively looking, it makes sense to send them a resume. For all you know, they may have been about to post for an empty position and your resume will land in their inbox at just the right moment.
Job hunting can be discouraging for even the most seasoned job-hunters. Remember, although skills are important, they aren’t the only consideration. Often finding the perfect job is about perseverance, numbers, and timing. The more contacts you make and work you put into job hunting, the more likely you are to be successful.