With more and more companies extending their work from home policies every day, we expect to see a massive increase in hiring for remote positions. The coronavirus pandemic has opened managers’ eyes to streamlining their teams while allowing for a greater work-life balance. In March alone, job postings for remote positions were up over 42% on LinkedIn. If you are hoping to take advantage of this workplace evolution, try using these three tactics to sell yourself for a remote position.
Set the stage by nailing a remote interview
Spoiler alert: if you flub a virtual interview, you will not be hired for a remote position. This includes everything from scheduling and set up to following up with a thoughtful thank you note. Be sure to brush up on your video interview skills – including testing your equipment, assessing your surroundings, and putting together a professional outfit.
Throughout the interview, it’s essential to remain fully engaged in the interviewer(s). Close all other windows and limit outside distractions. Ask questions that explicitly reference the remote nature of the position. As soon as you hang up, craft a thoughtful thank you note and fire it off to all people involved. Executing these practices flawlessly will cue the Hiring Manager into your efficiency, excellent communication skills, and self-motivation to accomplish tasks when left to your own devices.
Do your research
Yes, we recommend this for every job search. But when you’re in the running for a remote position, you need to take it up a notch! If the hiring process is 100% remote (which many are for remote positions), you won’t have the advantage of seeing the company in person. You won’t get a feel for the company culture by checking out what employees are wearing or how they interact with one another.
However, you can still gain these insights; you’ll just have to work a little harder! Do a deep dive into the company’s social media, keeping an eye out for any team pictures or posts specifically referencing the company culture. Scour their Glassdoor profile to read first-hand accounts for current and ex-employees. (But remember to take reviews with a grain of salt!)
Highlight your soft skills
While, of course, your qualifications are important for snagging an interview, soft skills will seal the deal and get you an offer in hand for a remote position. Hiring Managers prioritize those who will be self-sufficient, communicate effectively, and crush it in the time-management department. Be sure to utilize the STAR method to answer interview questions and demonstrate your soft skills. This will give your interviewer an in-depth understanding of your skills and how you put them to work.
Next Step: Brush Up On Common Interview Questions
Don’t worry; at JSG, we have an arsenal of interview prep advice to help you nail your upcoming job interview. Good luck!
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