With the recent mass layoffs, many are saying that it’s difficult to find a job.
Traditional office employees are also looking to transition to remote work.
If you’re one of the people who’s having trouble finding a remote job, here’s what you can do:
Challenge #1: A Generic Resume
If you’re currently job hunting, you’re probably sending your CVs to multiple companies.
The more you send out, the higher your chances of getting a job interview, right?
However, you might not stand out (or even reach the right audience) if you submit the same resume each time.
Remember, most hiring managers process hundreds of applications within a day.
So, if your resume is too generic, they might not give it a passing glance.
Solution: Optimize your resume by removing any irrelevant information. Instead, add the necessary keywords about the remote role you’re applying for.
Further, don’t forget to include remote-specific skills in your cover letter.
For example, you can talk about time management and organizational skills, which are valuable when you work remotely.
Your cover letter should also ideally demonstrate your strong communication skills.
Challenge #2: A Poor Portfolio
Having a career portfolio is essential when you’re applying for online jobs these days.
Presenting your portfolio to potential employers gives them an immediate idea of your strengths.
Still, it’s easy to make mistakes when compiling your best work.
For instance, you could have too many or too few entries in your portfolio.
Your portfolio might even lack context.
For example, if you’re a graphic designer, you should include a bit of explanation for your visuals. Otherwise, your employer wouldn’t know what each of them is for.
You can also include when it was made and who it was for.
Solution: You have full control over what goes into your work portfolio.
However, it’s best to narrow it down if there’s too much going on to avoid confusing your clients.
Remember to only pick the best—and the most relevant.
Alternatively, create your own and file them under “Personal Projects” if you don’t have a lot of output to show just yet!
If you’re unsure about what work to showcase, ask your potential client about what they’re looking for.
Or, look up the company to learn more about its branding and content.
Then, tailor your portfolio around it.
Challenge #3: Tight Competition
Like with anything else in life, you’ll always have competition.
Now, if you’re thinking about becoming a remote worker, be prepared to go up against hundreds of job seekers.
A lot of employees are leaving their traditional office jobs to work remotely, so how do you overcome this and stand out?
(This is assuming you already met the basic requirements such as good communication, time management and organizational skills, strong work ethics, passion, etc.)
Solution: Developing unique personal branding can help you stand out—and even land more clients.
It also establishes your credibility and expertise.
When you also finally land that job interview, practice as much as you can beforehand.
Prepare answers to the usual interview questions, and when you get the chance, talk about your hobbies and interests.
Doing so humanizes you and allows the HR manager to see if you’ll fit well within the company culture.
In all, mastering the art of telling stories lets you have a more engaging conversation with the hiring manager—which makes you more memorable as a candidate.
Challenge #4: Lack of Research
Don’t come into a job interview unprepared.
Sure, you can standardize your answers to address some of the most common interview questions.
However, not looking up the company beforehand can ruin your chances of getting hired.
Solution: Always look into the company you’re applying for.
Know the organization’s mission, vision, and goals to help you understand its culture.
You’ll also be able to effectively tailor your answers to fit what the company is looking for.
Further, it’ll demonstrate your genuine interest in the business, which the interviewers will appreciate.
Final Word
The current remote work challenges make it more difficult to find a job these days.
However, like with anything else, you’ll need a lot of patience with maybe just a bit of luck.
Of course, don’t forget to fix any of the issues mentioned above to increase your chances of landing a remote job.
So, on that note, if you’re ready to work online, Remote Staff has a regularly updated job board. It has many open remote roles across several industries.
Remote Staff has also been in business for 16 years (and counting)! The company helps to match you with the right client once you’ve passed the application process, so you won’t have to keep looking for prospects on your own.
Interested? Register today!
