10 Hacks to Find a Remote Job in 2024
Tags: webdev, beginners, programming, jobs
Published: 2024-02-02 13:10:23

The COVID-19 pandemic dramatically transformed professional life overnight. As companies scrambled to adapt in March 2020, tech workers had a front-row seat to the rapid shift to remote work. Many predicted that tech jobs would be immune to the economic fallout of the virus. However, this optimism proved to be naïve.

Nearly three years later, the tech industry bears deep scars from the still-ongoing pandemic. Budget cuts and hiring freezes are now commonplace. 

Mass layoffs, once unheard of at thriving tech firms, have become an inescapable new reality. The lucky employed tech workers left behind find themselves on constant edge, haunted by survivor’s guilt and anxiety over who will be “zoomed” next.


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The numbers paint a sobering picture. Over 150,000 tech workers in the US have lost their jobs since March 2020, with more than 80,000 laid off in 2022 alone. 

Once unstoppable tech sectors like crypto and e-commerce saw massive layoffs, companies like Coinbase, Robinhood, and Shopify cut 30-40% of their workforces. Mass dismissal over video conferencing is so prevalent that “being zoomed” has become workplace slang, evoking the dread of seeing that surprise meeting appear on your calendar. 

With more people losing their jobs and many more looking to work remotely, how can you stand out and secure your ideal remote position? 

This comprehensive guide outlines key strategies to land a rewarding remote job this year successfully.


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## Get Clear on What You Want

Before beginning your search, get clear on the type of remote arrangement you want. Determine whether you’re seeking full-time employment or open to freelance gigs and flexible schedules. Also consider expected compensation, must-have benefits, job titles that interest you, and skill requirements for target roles. Defining your remote work priorities allows for a focused, streamlined job search process.

## Leverage Specialized Remote Job Sites  

Industry-specific and remote work-focused job boards like [FlexJobs, We Work Remotely, Remote.co, and PowerToFly](https://blog.learnhub.africa/2024/02/01/top-sites-to-get-remote-role-in-2024/) enables you to quickly find and apply for open positions that match your background. 

Find links to all the above platforms here: 

Set up alerts on these sites to receive notifications when new relevant listings get posted so you can be a first applicant. The vetted opportunities on these niche boards also help minimize the risks of remote work scams.


## Strategically Network and Tap Contacts

Networking remains one of the most effective ways to uncover unadvertised openings. Reach out to people you already know – through email, LinkedIn, Twitter, Slack, or community forums – who work in your field of interest. 

Briefly share your experience, interests, and job search while seeking career advice and referrals. Warm outreach leveraging existing connections yields better response rates than cold-mailing strangers.  

## Search Applicant Tracking Systems  

Many companies use platforms like Greenhouse, Lever, SmartRecruiters, and Workday to manage hiring. You can uncover unposted openings by searching **“[ATS name] + [job title or keywords]**” directly on Google or Twitter. For example, “site:lever.co remote copywriter” or “SmartRecruiters location:Vancouver.” 

Connect on LinkedIn with recruiters from companies you want to target to pitch yourself when relevant roles open up.

## Use Cold Outreach and Job Referrals  

While cold contacting can be hit-or-miss, emailing companies directly yields better results than waiting for opportunities to find you. Start by researching target companies and identifying relevant hiring decision-makers. 

Craft short, personalized outreach emails highlighting your fit, including links to your profile, portfolio, and resume. Maintain a tracking spreadsheet of outreach attempts and responses.  

Referrals can provide a great foot in the door with your dream organizations. Ask connections at target companies to refer you to the internal recruiter or hiring manager. Many ATS lists will prioritize qualified referred candidates.  

## Be Among the First Applicants   

Submitting your application early can give you a competitive advantage. You bypass the initial resume screening and give the hiring manager more time to get to know you and evaluate your qualifications before the list of candidates grows. Set up job alerts on relevant sites and qualify your interest immediately when relevant postings go live.

## Treat It Like a Project

As your post-application list of networking, follow-ups, interviews, and assessments grows, stay on top of the process by treating your job search like a project. Break down tasks into detailed checklists, spreadsheets, or project management software.  Use labels and reminders to track progress and ensure no opportunities fall off the radar.


## Proactively Pitch Yourself

Go beyond applying through online portals to directly email or message the hiring manager on LinkedIn once you’ve submitted your resume. Include personalized snippets highlighting your experience, passion, and how you can add value if given the chance. Most applicants take a passive approach so that this extra effort can set them apart.   

## Focus on Compelling Application Content  

Optimize your resume and cover letters to highlight skills and value you can specifically provide in a remote setting. 


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Emphasize positives such as flexible working styles, strong communication, and self-motivation. Address potential concerns like working without direct oversight or fully independently. Test your job search content with contacts who have experience evaluating candidates for remote roles.

## Be Prepared to Sell Yourself  

For job interviews and assessments, be ready to convey persuasively why you are a great remote fit over other applicants. Discuss strategies for overcoming common remote challenges like communication delays, lack of face-to-face interaction, and the need for self-discipline. 

Ask insightful questions that show interest in the company and role versus just wanting a remote position.   

With strategic planning and execution of these tactics, you can cut through the complexity of remote job searching in 2024. By showcasing your unique value and selling yourself, you will land more interviews and move closer to securing the remote position that’s perfect for you.

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If you find this post exciting, find more exciting posts on [Learnhub Blog](https://blog.learnhub.africa/); we write everything tech from [Cloud computing](https://blog.learnhub.africa/category/cloud-computing/) to [Frontend Dev](https://blog.learnhub.africa/category/frontend/), [Cybersecurity](https://blog.learnhub.africa/category/security/), [AI](https://blog.learnhub.africa/category/data-science/), and [Blockchain](https://blog.learnhub.africa/category/blockchain/).