Asian female programmer for yellow shirt sitting with a hand on her chin,She stared at the computer screen and pondered.

Do You Have What It Takes To Work From Home?

Working remotely has always been regarded as a trend, but unprecedented times has made it a necessity. The idea of working remotely comes with a lot of misconceptions, especially when it comes to the romanticization of how the job works. People assume that working a remote job means the total freedom of stress, an easy career path towards success. Unfortunately, finding a remote job can be just as complex as the traditional ones, albeit the different processes. 

While in-person meetings are uncommon, you need a well-written resume and amazing interview performances. In other words, you need to prepare for remote work as you would with traditional roles, especially when it comes to the environment. 

As you prepare for your arrival at the remote work landscape, here are the three most important things to consider:

1 – Ponder on the remote work environment—is it the right one for you?

Perhaps the most important yet often overlooked aspect of starting a remote job is considering whether or not it suits you. Before venturing out into looking for remote jobs, you have to do your research and ask whether or not it will suit your personal lifestyle and work ethics.

Considering whether or not you’ll be adept for a remote job will entail some introspection. There will be certain aspects of these jobs that better suit certain personality traits and work styles. For example, some jobs require a significant amount of interaction with other people and may not be suited for those who are not comfortable with talking to other people. Others may require careful attention and focus, as well as sitting in front of a computer for hours on end—these jobs may not be for everyone.

It’s also equally important to consider the pros and cons of working from home. Before looking for remote jobs, it’s crucial to reflect on whether or not a certain job will suit your ideal lifestyle and work environment, and whether or not you can see yourself holding this job for a long period of time.

2 – Understand the importance of an online presence 

Given the success of LinkedIn, it’s only logical that you invest in a good online presence.  Most employers now turn to the power of social media to go through candidates online, especially since online resumes have now become non-negotiables. If you’re not online, you’re missing out—especially when it comes to applying for your dream companies. 

Your online presence also pertains to how you conduct and communicate. Your email, for instance, should also serve as a thorough cover letter, tailored specifically to the position and company you wish to send it too. Since there’s no way of getting to know you other than through your online presence and conduct, most interviews will be based solely on how you’ve written your cover letters, along with other documents you put on the table. 

3 – Tailor your skills and experiences according to the remote job 

While prospective employers differ widely when it comes to remote-specific tools and software, make sure that you spend some time learning about them. Bear in mind that you will be only communicating online, making phone and video calls a necessary platform. 

Your skills need to be well suited for the job description, but it’s also vital that you show employers you have what it takes to survive a remote job. Here are some of the most common software tools:

  • Slack
  • Skype
  • Zoom
  • Google Chat and Hangouts 

The Work Environment of the Future is Now

Getting a remote job may seem difficult at first, especially since you will be working with a company existing thousands of miles away. The job application also holds different processes, especially since all communication will be done in the comforts of your home. 

But that’s the most integral thing about understanding remote work—it’s not difficult, just different. So long as you immerse yourself in the passion and interest of remote work, you’ll surely be reaping the rewards for years to come—in your pyjamas, facing your home’s yard. 

If you wish to apply for work at home jobs, WFH Pad has you covered. We exist to help people like you find rewarding remote work opportunities, regardless of your educational background and location. Browse through our postings today!