An article by Jennifer Parris for Mashable
Maybe the breaking point was when you were pushing and shoving your way onto a too-crowded train just to spend the next hour sandwiched between two hygiene-deficient fellow commuters; or maybe it was your micromanaging boss breathing down your neck as you began your workday (again) — in any case, you've decided that you’ve had enough of commuting. You’re not alone: currently one in five workers in the U.S. telecommutes, and you could soon join their ranks.
Ready to ditch your killer commute for good? Here are five ways to find a job at a completely virtual company — and say hello to some sweet work-life balance.
Tips for snagging a telecommuting job
1. Revamp your resume and make it relevant
Like most resumes, yours boasts all of your previous accomplishments and accolades. But in order to land a telecommuting position, you’ll need to showcase the skills and work experiences that highlight your ability to work from home. For example, you’ll want to highlight your ability to work independently, your superior communication skills and your adeptness with the online tools and sharing programs that remote workers frequently use.
2. Be specific in your search
The job listing you just came across looks great — but does it explicitly state that it’s a telecommuting position? Unless a job posting specifically states that it's a remote job, there’s a good chance it's not. Stay strategic in your job hunt by solely focusing on companies that will allow you to work from home. Use keywords like "virtual job" or “remote job” to help target your search. But since there are almost 100 job scams for every true work-from-home position, check out the company before sending in your application.
3. Connect with companies online
Once you’ve decided what kind of job you’d like to have, it’s time to start doing a little digging. Look for companies that are completely virtual and also align with what you’d like to do in your career. Then, reach out to them via social media. Follow them on Twitter, connect with them via LinkedIn and like their companies’ Facebook pages as well. Be engaging by participating in online discussions and offering your knowledge and expertise on the topic at hand. This can help you forge a connection with the company before reaching out to a hiring manager to inquire about a position.
4. Be prepared at home
You dream of the day when you can work all day in your PJs and fluffy slippers. Until then, you’ll need to set the stage for success. Create a home office (even an attic, closet or a corner of your bedroom will do, as long as it’s a dedicated workspace) and make sure that your office equipment is in good working order. If you don’t already have it, get the fastest Internet connection possible, as slow Internet speeds can be a telecommuter’s worst nightmare.
5. Be proactive
Let’s say that you’ve been on the job hunt for a while, and, well, nada. It doesn’t hurt to reach out to a targeted number of companies (no more than 10-15) and offer your services. Assess the company’s overall standing and see where you might fit into their workflow. Maybe they are in desperate need of a better public relations person, or a dedicated social media manager. Craft a customized cover letter detailing how much you’d like to work for the organization, and how your skill set, knowledge and experience make you an ideal fit.
.....
Ready to ditch your killer commute for good? Here are five ways to find a job at a completely virtual company — and say hello to some sweet work-life balance.
Tips for snagging a telecommuting job
1. Revamp your resume and make it relevant
Like most resumes, yours boasts all of your previous accomplishments and accolades. But in order to land a telecommuting position, you’ll need to showcase the skills and work experiences that highlight your ability to work from home. For example, you’ll want to highlight your ability to work independently, your superior communication skills and your adeptness with the online tools and sharing programs that remote workers frequently use.
2. Be specific in your search
The job listing you just came across looks great — but does it explicitly state that it’s a telecommuting position? Unless a job posting specifically states that it's a remote job, there’s a good chance it's not. Stay strategic in your job hunt by solely focusing on companies that will allow you to work from home. Use keywords like "virtual job" or “remote job” to help target your search. But since there are almost 100 job scams for every true work-from-home position, check out the company before sending in your application.
3. Connect with companies online
Once you’ve decided what kind of job you’d like to have, it’s time to start doing a little digging. Look for companies that are completely virtual and also align with what you’d like to do in your career. Then, reach out to them via social media. Follow them on Twitter, connect with them via LinkedIn and like their companies’ Facebook pages as well. Be engaging by participating in online discussions and offering your knowledge and expertise on the topic at hand. This can help you forge a connection with the company before reaching out to a hiring manager to inquire about a position.
4. Be prepared at home
You dream of the day when you can work all day in your PJs and fluffy slippers. Until then, you’ll need to set the stage for success. Create a home office (even an attic, closet or a corner of your bedroom will do, as long as it’s a dedicated workspace) and make sure that your office equipment is in good working order. If you don’t already have it, get the fastest Internet connection possible, as slow Internet speeds can be a telecommuter’s worst nightmare.
5. Be proactive
Let’s say that you’ve been on the job hunt for a while, and, well, nada. It doesn’t hurt to reach out to a targeted number of companies (no more than 10-15) and offer your services. Assess the company’s overall standing and see where you might fit into their workflow. Maybe they are in desperate need of a better public relations person, or a dedicated social media manager. Craft a customized cover letter detailing how much you’d like to work for the organization, and how your skill set, knowledge and experience make you an ideal fit.
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