For many years, working from home was a dream for most employees. Today, it's become commonplace.
Remote work has already doubled and will increase by over 87% by 2025, according to the employment platform FlexJobs. The pandemic played a significant role in the increase, but there are other factors too.
Cutting down on commuting helps fight climate change and may lower turnover. A survey reported by Forbes found that 97% of employees don't want to return to the traditional office full-time.
If you're job hunting or about to start, you have more options than before. Learn how to make remote work part of your criteria for finding a new position.
Seeking a Remote Position:
- Focus on knowledge. Some types of work are more flexible than others. You can't stay home if you're a firefighter or airline pilot. On the other hand, knowledge workers, like accountants, writers, and specialists in customer service, can easily be remote workers.
- Select keywords. Besides remote and hybrid work, use common synonyms, like telecommuting and virtual jobs. You might also search for listings that mention balance and flexible work.
- Use your network. Some strategies apply to any job search. Reach out to your contacts for information about remote work opportunities and recommendations.
- Talk with recruiters. Combining a variety of methods will often shorten your job search. Let recruiters know that you're interested in new opportunities, especially if they mean working from home.
- Share your experience. Let potential employers know why you're a great remote candidate. Describe what you've accomplished working from home and how you communicate effectively. Highlight your technology skills too.
- Prepare for video interviews. Make sure you're ready for an online hiring process. Test your internet connection and devices. Rehearse what you want to say.
- Apply to Cápita Works. Check out our job postings for virtual positions. Remember that VA jobs are not limited to administrative tasks. At Cápita Works, we have a wide range of jobs you can apply for. You can also check out our frequently requested positions to get an idea of the many jobs you can perform as a VA.
Practice making eye contact and keeping the conversation flowing:
- Check restrictions. Some remote positions allow you to travel the world, but others have limits. For example, you might need to live in a particular area for tax reasons.
- Stay safe. Many reputable companies allow you to work from home, but you still need to watch out for scams. Beware of anyone promising unlimited earnings. Walk away if they ask you to pay money upfront or demand sensitive information like social security numbers.
Negotiating to Make Your New Position Remote:
- Set priorities. It's more challenging when an employer isn't offering remote work. You'll have to decide if they seem open to the idea or if you're willing to compromise.
- Prove your worth. Strengthen your position by demonstrating the unique contributions that you can make. Focus on why working from home would benefit your employer, like saving on office space.
- Take it gradually. Your new boss may prefer a slower approach. Maybe they'll agree to hybrid work requiring you to come into the office only 2 or 3 days a week. Perhaps you can arrange a trial period for a few weeks or months.
- Try other changes. If remote work is out of the question, at least temporarily, see if you can use different methods to get some of the same results. A four-day work week would cut down on your commute. A weekly casual dress day would let you wear your sweatpants.
According to another survey by Forbes, 82% of remote employees agreed or strongly agreed when asked if they enjoyed working from home. Many studies show that productivity remains high, too. Finding a remote job could work well for you and your next employer.
If you're looking for a remote position, we can help you find it! Look at our latest job openings and contact us if you have doubts about us and our services.
