The pandemic normalized remote work, but the landscape in 2024 looks different. Companies that once promised “remote forever” are pushing for returns to office, while others have embraced the distributed workforce completely. Let’s cut through the noise and talk about what really matters when hunting for remote roles.

The New Normal Isn’t That New

First, let’s address the elephant in the room: remote work isn’t just “working from home in your pajamas.” Modern remote positions demand a different skill set, and more importantly, a different mindset.

Companies know this too. They’re not just looking for someone who can do the job—they’re looking for someone who can do it with minimal supervision, clear communication, and solid self-management.

Your Digital Presence Matters (But Not How You Think)

Yes, your LinkedIn profile should be updated. But more importantly, your digital communication skills need to be sharp. In a remote setting, how you write becomes who you are.

Quick examples of what actually matters:

• Clear, concise emails/messages
• Ability to explain complex ideas in writing
• Proactive communication about blockers/progress
• Knowing when to hop on a call vs. sending a message

The Remote Job Hunt is Different

Remote positions often attract hundreds (sometimes thousands) of applicants. Why? Because they’re not limited by geography. This means you need to be even more strategic about where and how you apply.

Some hard truths:

• “Remote” jobs that don’t list a time zone? Probably not real
• “Remote” with quarterly office visits? Factor in those travel costs
• “Remote-first” vs “Remote-friendly” - know the difference

Finding Real Remote Opportunities

Skip the generic job boards. Focus on:

• Company career pages (especially tech companies that are known for remote work)
• Specialized remote job platforms
• Industry-specific job boards that have remote filters

If a job post looks too good to be true (Senior position, fully remote, any timezone, excellent pay)—it probably is. Watch out for scams; they’re particularly prevalent in remote job listings.

The Interview Process

Remote interviews come with their own challenges. Beyond the basics (test your tech, find good lighting), focus on demonstrating:

• How you structure your workday
• Your experience with asynchronous work
• Specific examples of remote collaboration

Pro tip: If a company’s interview process is chaotic, it’s usually a preview of their remote work culture.

Setting Yourself Up for Success

Before accepting a remote role, clarify:

• Core hours and time zone expectations
• Equipment provisions (do they supply it or is it BYOD?)
• Communication tools and expectations
• How performance is measured

Don’t be afraid to ask these questions during interviews. Better to know upfront than to be surprised later.

Moving Forward

Remote work can offer incredible flexibility and opportunities—but it’s not for everyone, and that’s okay. The key is being honest about whether your work style aligns with remote requirements.

Remember: the goal isn’t just to land a remote job; it’s to find one where you’ll actually thrive.

---

The remote work landscape keeps evolving, but one thing remains constant: success comes from understanding both the opportunities and challenges it presents. Focus on what matters, skip the fluff, and approach your remote job search with clear eyes.

Looking for remote roles? OAKI can help you find and apply to them efficiently.