Breaking Into Your First Remote Job: Tips And Tactics
Want to snag your first remote job? The surge in remote work is creating exciting opportunities and challenges. Let's look at the steps to landing your first remote position and why it might sometimes be beneficial to start with a non-remote or lower-paid remote role.
Challenges in Your First Remote Job Hunt
The perks of remote work are clear: flexible hours, zero commute, and working from wherever suits you, whether that's Spain or anywhere in the world. But, landing your first remote job can be tough. Companies often prefer candidates with prior remote work experience. They look for skills such as self-discipline, effective communication, time management, and tech savviness. With a whole world to choose from, and a higher level of trust needed in remote teams, you can't blame them.
Using a Non-Remote Role as a Stepping Stone
If finding your first remote job is proving difficult, don't worry. Starting with a non-remote role can be a great strategy. It lets you gather relevant experience and skills. You also learn how to work independently, manage time effectively, and communicate well.
Non-remote roles offer structured environments for skill development. You can gain feedback from peers and face professional challenges head-on. These experiences will serve you well when transitioning to a remote role.
Remember that changing to remote work is a long game, and worth some investment of time and effort. If that means proving to an employer that you can do a job with a remote future, then it could be worth putting some time in where they can see you, with a view to negotiating remote in future.
The Merits of Lower-Paid Remote Jobs
While we all seek good pay, don't overlook the benefits of a lower-paid remote job. These roles can be the stepping stone to your first remote job, setting you up for higher-paying roles later.
You might also save money on commuting, clothes, and meals. The experience you gain is priceless and can open doors to better roles. With remote work, you can apply for jobs all over the world. And you can even use geoarbitrage to live somewhere a bit cheaper, while you build up your income potential.
Navigating Your First Remote Job Search: Step-by-Step
Ready to tackle your first remote job search? Here's a simple guide:
Upskill: Identify the skills you need and build them. Use online courses, internships, or personal projects.
Highlight skills: Show your remote-ready skills on your resume and LinkedIn. Even if you picked these up in non-remote roles or personal activities, they're still valuable.
Network: Make connections through online remote work communities and virtual events. These contacts could lead to job opportunities. Obviously make sure you're connected to Remote Work Spain on Facebook!
Apply smart: Don't limit your search to only remote roles. Non-remote and lower-paid remote roles can be useful stepping stones.
Prepare for interviews: Be ready to discuss your remote work readiness. Talk about how you've used the necessary skills in past roles or projects.
Negotiate: After an offer for a non-remote role, try negotiating a few remote work days per week.
Be patient: Understand that finding your first remote job might take time. Stay positive, persistent, and open to opportunities. Keep doing your research, there are remote-friendly employers out there for you.
Consider lower pay: Lower-paid remote roles can give you the experience you need. They can also teach you invaluable lessons for future roles.
Keep learning: Once you land your first remote job, keep learning. Seek feedback, use online resources, and always look for ways to improve.
Show your worth: Use your first remote job to show your effectiveness. Exceed expectations, communicate proactively, and manage your time well.
The road to your first remote job might be challenging, but it's also rewarding. Remember, your career is a journey. Every experience—remote, non-remote, high, or low pay—provides valuable lessons. Stay positive, adaptable, and open to learning. The perfect remote job is out there waiting for you!