While the work-from-home trend will outlive the coronavirus, there are things to consider to work under the model well enough to sustain your long-term career.
It is difficult to find anything good to say about the Covid pandemic, but one positive trend that has caught on in the pandemic's wake is Work-From-Home (WFH). Get up in the morning when your body is screaming for more sleep, shave and shower, dress formally (Oh God!), grab a bite for breakfast, and then fight your way through the city traffic to arrive at the office knackered out. I wish things could get better!
They are beginning to, and you want to start swimming with this tide before the tide changes. Employers are increasingly beginning to realize that the WFH model is workable in many cases. It possibly even gets better output from employees who are saved the morning scourge that saps their energy for the rest of the day. Plus, employees get to work from the comfort of the one place they always long to be – home.
While the Work-From-Home trend will outlive the coronavirus, there are things to consider to work under the model well enough to sustain your long-term career.
Examine your skillset
Not every enterprise lends itself to the WFH model. For instance, factories, banks and transport agencies can not let employees work from home. Thus, a limited number of jobs – primarily freelance and contract work – currently fits the WFH model. Graphic design, copywriting, data entry, and programming are examples of WFH candidates' jobs.
So the very first thing you want to do is ascertain that your work lies within the band. Next up, you set out to make yourself more marketable for remote work.
Show your work
If you plan to work remotely, you'll need a portfolio that fits the bill for remote work. It helps if you have already worked remotely in the past. Your portfolio should include all your work (no matter when or where) that might interest potential clients. For example, if you are into copywriting, don't omit your decades-old role as editor of your college campus magazine – your next employer might just be looking for a copywriter with editing skills.
There are many ways you can display your work to others virtually:
- Online Portfolio: You could build a portfolio at a freelance job portal such as Upwork.
- Social media: LinkedIn is another excellent avenue for showcasing your previous work.
- Blog/website: You might even set up a blog or website with a link to your portfolio.
In any profile write-ups, resumes and cover letters you post online, pitch the quality of your work. Also, highlight the convenience of hiring you for remote work.
Remote work needs self-sufficient and organized employees. So be sure to promote this particular trait to potential employers.
Utilize job platforms
Many people who work remotely will choose freelance work over long-term gigs. There are platforms designed to make this process easy and connect with like-minded companies.
If you have not heard of Rat Race Rebellion (RRR), it would be a good time to learn about this emerging platform for online jobs. Check out this Rat Race Rebellion review to glean more information.
RRR also offers you a place to promote your work. So create your online account with them accordingly.
Find work-from-anywhere companies
Some companies are not structured to allow employees to work remotely. Avoid them and focus on others.
While permitting remote work, some companies may still want employees to be in the same city. This is usually mentioned in their job posts, so be sure to refine your search accordingly.
Many companies that currently allow WFH may switch back to regular office work once the Covid pandemic is over. You, therefore, need to make it clear that you want to remain remote permanently.
Create a workspace
Since you work remotely, you need an organized, efficient workspace at home. If you need to invest a few bucks revving up your work environment, don't shy away – your workspace defines your own personal and professional well-being.
Find relaxation spots in the neighborhood for times when you want to step out. A nice coffee shop with reliable WiFi would perhaps be ideal.
Finally, check that you have all the infrastructure and software you may need for your work. At a minimum, you must have a computer with a webcam and broadband internet.
Patience is the key
In an interconnected world, you have to compete for remote work globally. This means more opportunities as well as more competition. It may be a while before you get your first break. But patience always pays off when you have the right skills. Once you have your first client, others will soon follow.
