Remote work has transformed from a perk to an expectation. With remote job postings up 457% since 2020 and 42% of the U.S. workforce now working remotely, the opportunities are vast—but so is the competition. Here's how to stand out and land your dream remote position.
The New Reality of Remote Hiring
When companies hire remotely, they're no longer limited by geography. This means you're competing with candidates from around the world. To stand out, you need more than a solid resume—you need a clear, memorable personal brand and proven remote work capabilities.
Optimizing Your Remote Job Application
1. Build a Strong LinkedIn Presence
Your LinkedIn profile is often the first thing remote employers check. Keep it aligned with the roles you're targeting:
- Write a compelling "About" section that highlights remote work experience
- Use consistent job titles and keywords
- Stay active with likes, posts, and thoughtful comments
- Add "Remote" or "Open to Remote Work" to your headline
2. Highlight Remote-Specific Skills
Beyond your technical qualifications, emphasize skills that matter for remote work:
- Proficiency with collaboration tools (Slack, Zoom, Asana, etc.)
- Experience with asynchronous communication
- Time zone flexibility and self-scheduling ability
- Home office setup and reliable internet
3. Prepare for Virtual Interviews
Virtual interview skills are essential. Before your interview:
- Test your technology (camera, microphone, internet connection)
- Ensure your background is tidy and professional
- Maintain eye contact by looking at the camera, not the screen
- Have a backup plan (phone number) in case of technical issues
Where to Find Remote Jobs
Specialized Remote Job Boards
- FlexJobs (curated, scam-free listings)
- Remote.co
- We Work Remotely
- Himalayas
- Working Nomads
Traditional Platforms with Remote Filters
- LinkedIn (use the "Remote" location filter)
- Indeed
- Glassdoor
Track Your Applications
With remote job searching, you'll likely apply to many positions across different platforms. Use a spreadsheet or application tracking tool to monitor:
- Company name and position
- Application date
- Resume version used
- Follow-up timeline
- Interview stages and notes
Start Your Remote Job Search
Our platform helps you optimize your resume for remote positions, track applications, and prepare for virtual interviews. Start free and discover how AI can accelerate your remote job search.