Remote Reality Check (aka why we haven’t “heard of any remote jobs going”)
The prospect of working from the comfort of your own home, or from a beach/park/mountain/coffee shop (delete as appropriate), has great appeal to most of us. However, finding remote jobs and clients is not as simple as popping into a group and saying “any work going?”.
The nature of working remotely demands a much more proactive approach, meaning you need to put in some effort, update your info, do the leg work, make yourself irresistible to prospective employers or clients in the digital job market.
Let's talk about what steps you need to make, to grab those remote opportunities and not let them get snapped up by those who are on the ball.
Update your CV
Your CV is your shop window, if your display is not great, no one will come in and that’s exactly what you need them to do. Tailoring your CV to highlight remote-friendly skills and experiences is crucial, as is making sure your CV is relevant to the job you’re applying for. Showcase your ability to work independently, manage time efficiently and communicate effectively in a virtual environment. Remember, your CV is often the first impression you make on potential employers or clients, so invest time in crafting a compelling narrative that aligns with remote work expectations.
Sort out your LinkedIn
LinkedIn is not just an online CV, it's an online professional network. Make sure your profile is not only up-to-date but also optimised for remote work opportunities. Join relevant groups, participate in discussions and connect with professionals in your field. A solid LinkedIn presence can attract recruiters and clients alike, making it a powerful asset in your remote job search tool box.
And make sure you grab our very own guide, to help you sort it out once and for all!
Be prepared for your interviews
Remote job interviews differ from traditional face-to-face ones, you not only need to be up to speed with the latest tech, the company that you’re applying with etc, you also need to be very self aware about how you come across. Practice video interviews, make sure your environment looks professional and clutter-free, don’t fidget or swing on your chair, expect questions about your remote work experience. Demonstrating that you’re comfortable and confident in a remote setting will boost the confidence of your interviewers in you.
Update your skills
Remote work often demands a unique skill set. Stay relevant by updating your skills to meet the evolving demands of the digital workplace. Think about taking free courses on collaboration tools, project management software, or industry-specific technologies commonly used in remote settings. Show prospective employers that you’re adaptable and willing to embrace new tech, get ahead of your competition.
Register on job sites
While social media platforms and personal networks play a crucial role, don't overlook how important dedicated job sites are. Register on platforms that are specifically for remote work opportunities, such as Indeed, Publiremote, Superpath and of course LinkedIn, set up job alerts tailored to your skills and preferences. These sites streamline the job search process, making sure you don't miss out on potential remote positions.
Check out the Remote Work Europe job feeds
If you’re looking for remote opportunities within Europe, exploring dedicated job feeds like the ones we have on Remote Work Europe can be a game-changer. Our country pages each have a job feed including jobs that can be done in/from each country, to save you hours of scrolling to find work that you can do where you live. Check in regularly, these feeds are updated every day, that perfect role might be just around the corner.
Finding remote jobs and clients is the dream, but it demands a proactive and strategic approach. Updating your CV, honing interview skills, enhancing your skill set, optimising your LinkedIn profile, and using dedicated job sites are important in navigating the complex remote work job market. The path may be challenging, but the rewards of a flexible and fulfilling remote career are well worth the effort. So, roll up your sleeves, dive into the virtual job market, and make your remote work aspirations a reality.
