If you are like me, during the pandemic you got to work from home. However, as things started to settle back to the “new normal”, more and more companies decided to go back to the office or to hybrid options of work. 

As such, job-hunting for a truly remote job can be harder, as companies are publishing as remote, when in reality the positions published are location-based. 

Furthermore, the real remote positions are limited to fields that may not be of interest to you. In here, I am not saying that it is not worth it to seek to improve one’s skills to get a different position, but if you are trying to just change your work location to remote, it is harder than it looks. 

What to look for in postings?

  1. Do they specify the country or city you have to reside in?

    If yes, just make sure that the description says “remote from anywhere of X city or country”. 

  2. Does it actually offer schedule flexibility?

    One of the main problems with today’s remote work is the need to micro-manage. Companies need to know where you are and what you do at all times. As such, they only offer limited hours of work, to ensure you are supervised during peak hours, which does not allow you to increase your earning capacity and work-life balance. So, be sure to ask what the schedules are, if the posting does not mention that. 

  3. Are the tasks appealing to you?

    A lot of people just look for “remote” as the main goal. However, if the work that you are asked to do is not aligned with your interests, you will find it boring fast or you will not be dedicated to being the best worker you can be. This may not seem like a big issue, but it will certainly hurt your chances of promotion within the company if that is something you are looking for. 

  4. Cheap labor is cheap labor

    Know what you are worth. Let me say it again: Know what you are worth. 
    Some companies may offer true remote positions, but at the same time they pay much less than the current job market. 
    Our suggestion here is to see what is positive and negative about the position. 
    For example, the hourly pay may be low, but there are no sales or cold-calling involved. 
    Or, the hourly pay may be high, but you may need to commit to over 40 hours per week or rotating shifts. 

    As such, just know what you want and what is expected of you. If you draw a plan for your goals, you will be able to reach them with the right position. 

 

Where do we go from here?

We recommend using recruiting firms to help you navigate remote positions.  Also, if you want to work abroad, pay a visit to the Consulate of the country you would like to be working in. Many countries offer working visas for people under 30, for entrepreneurs, or for other situations that may fit you. 

Revamp your CV and online footprint. 

Do people even know you are open for remote work or relocation?

Mentioning it online or in your CV may provide key elements to companies or recruiters to find the right position for you.

Moreover, it is key to be confident in what you want to come across as someone trust-worthy and settled in what they work for. 

What can NorthernActive do for you?

We can review your CV and Socials to suggest improvements and work with you to find the right position. 

Moreover, we can have a quick meeting with you to see what are your interests and try to find the right position for you, and even refer you to potential employers. 

We are currently working with GigCXMarketplace and they have positions that are fully remote within USA and Canada. Here are some of their postings: 

Xperigo Inbound Agent I

Numeris Market Research Interviewer

Service Desk – Tier 2 – Technician