Adapting Job Search Strategies for Remote Roles
The shift to remote work has drastically altered the job search landscape for many. Adapting your job search strategies to the current environment is essential to landing the role you want. Here’s a comprehensive look at the key considerations to bear in mind when searching for remote roles, so you can maximize your chances of success in this uncertain market.
Connect Virtually
Networking is still the go-to move for finding open roles. Whereas before you may have attended industry events or other functions, you can now make contact through virtual events, online forums, and social media. Use your contacts to access company insiders or alumni of your past positions for tips and advice. Expand your scope by joining industry-specific groups on LinkedIn or Slack channels for the latest news and developments.
Deepen Your Research
Important research is required when looking for remote roles. As non-local options become more widely accepted, companies may be advertising roles from other areas. Gather as much information as you can about job postings, such as job responsibilities and company culture. Connect with experts in the required field for advice and insight into potential roles. Consider the necessary skills and qualifications you need for the job and monitor job boards, recruitment websites, and company websites for the most up-to-date postings.
Prioritize Skills
Highlight the skills that are most relevant to the remote role you’re looking for. Building new skills is also important for remote roles, such as establishing self-discipline. Projects such as online courses or volunteer experience can help highlight both existing and new skills you possess. Remote roles often rely on written communication, so improve your digital communication skills and showcase any existing ones on your resume.
Create Remote-friendly Resumes
Using market research, create a resume with the targeted keywords for the desired remote role. Adapt the resume to the remote job you’re applying for by including projects done in virtual teams and any other experience working from home. Express your understanding of the current work environment and new job roles. Keep in mind the key skills and qualifications desired by employers and utilize digital tools to stand out from the competition. Mentioning remote certificates or awards you’ve obtained can be beneficial when applying.
Optimize Applications
Once you’ve narrowed down the roles you’re interested in, tailor each application to the requirements of the job. Outlaw generic cover letters – address the job position directly and provide tangible examples of the tasks you’ve previously completed. Sell yourself in tangible terms to direct the attention away from lacking physical interaction and towards what skills and qualifications you possess. Bear in mind the digital competencies required in job postings, such as video conferencing and cloud-based collaboration tools.
Nail the Video Interview
When you pass the initial application round, prepare for the video interview. Not all companies will conduct interviews remotely, but many will. Treat the interview as if it were a physical interview and carry out appropriate research into the organization. Make sure to dress appropriately, as you would for an in-person interview, and check the technical requirements of the software you’ll be using. Have two device back-ups ready in case of any technical difficulties and remove any distractions from the background.
Follow Up
You’ve made it to the final stage of the remote job search. Follow up with a polite and concise email thanking the hiring manager for their time. Don’t bug them with multiple emails – inquire about the timeline for hire and if there’s been any change in the scope of work. Reach out to your LinkedIn contacts at the company if you know anyone. Be patient and confident in yourself and your abilities. A remote job may take time to get, so keep at it and adjust your strategies accordingly.