You’ve read about the benefits of remote work, you’ve heard from people who work remotely and love it, and you’re ready to see if remote work could work for you. Before you begin filling out dozens of online job applications, however, it’s important to really nail down whether or note remote work is a good fit for you.
While we love remote work and we’re passionate about helping people in rural communities find meaningful work from anywhere in the country, we also have to admit that a remote position is not a good fit for everyone. Here are some considerations to keep front of mind as you’re deciding whether or not remote work is a good fit for you.
Before you apply for a position, you need to be honest about whether or not you have the skills and experience necessary to qualify for that position. Most job postings will list requirements: education, experience, skills or certifications. If you don’t meet those requirements, you don’t need to fill out the application.
A good rule of thumb is to ask yourself whether or not you would apply for this job in person. If not, there is another job that will be a better fit for you.
It’s worth mentioning here that if there is a job you’re really interested in but unqualified for, there are ways to get the skills you need remotely. Many colleges offer online classes, there are online courses and training available, and you can consider an intern or apprenticeship.
Remote work is a great fit for many people, but it requires a certain set of characteristics to be successful at it. Before you consider applying for a remote position, ask yourself if you are: