Remote Jobs: The New And Improved Way To Work

Remote Jobs is probably the most used word in this new age. If it sounds new and confusing to you, read on to know everything about them

What Are Remote Jobs?

For the lazy readers amongst us, Remote Jobs simply means the jobs you can do from the comfort of your home or any other preferred location. You don’t need to be at the office or report at 9 am.

Everything you can do to ensure your job goes well can be done from the comfort of your home. It sounds like a dream come true, uh? (Well, every new concept has its downsides).

What are the downsides of working from home? We’ll look into that later.

Remote jobs have become a very popular concept in our present society. The need for more remote workers grew astronomically during and after the famous “Covid” season.

Companies can no longer rely on “on-site” duties but must figure out a way for work to continue even from home.

Talk about creating structure.

This concept has been met with open arms and more people long for more remote positions because of the comfort it promises. (Is that all true though?)

For remote jobs to excel, there has to be clear communication and collaboration. This would help make up for the distance problem between workers.

Thankfully, technology has helped and is helping that cause. Being physically absent won’t prevent your work from going on.

Take me for example, I’m writing to you from the comfort of my three-sitter chair with two meat-pie beside me. Adeola won’t have to worry about getting work done too.

That’s my boss, guys. Hope she doesn’t see this, haha.

Remote jobs cut across various industries ranging from software development, customer service, marketing, writing, design, and more.

There are some essential skills needed to ensure you can do your remote job well. Let’s look at that.

What Skills Do I Need For A Remote Job?

Remotely working is very different from the usual work environment you are used to. Hence, it would take a new skill development to be able to flourish in this new role.

Below are some skills that are needed for remote jobs;

1. Communication

Is that a skill you ask? Effective verbal and written communication is not easy for everyone. Communicating clearly is very essential for remote jobs.

Most of your communication would happen through email, chat, video calls and other platforms that would pop up.

For assurance’s sake, you would need to answer to people. They would require you speak clearly and truthfully to move the work forward.

2. Time Management

Whew, very important.

Take me for example (again). I could be on my bed sleeping and postpone work till the afternoon. But, that would disturb other engagements set for later.

Time management is a vital skill for successful remote work. You would have to meet deadlines and submit deliverables without direct supervision.

3. Self-Discipline

Understandably, most of the skills that would be listed here are soft skills. Soft skills have become important since the appearance of remote jobs.

Self-discipline is the ability to stay focused and motivated without constant oversight. It is key to remote work success.

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4. Technical Proficiency

Being technically proficient is imperative too. You don’t have to be a guru But it would help if you know your way around most technical development.

This would help you stay comfortable when using various digital tools and software for communication, collaboration, project management, etc.

5. Problem-solving

Expectedly, you would be faced with work issues as you work from your comfort. How good are you at navigating these issues on your own?

You should be able to challenge any problem that arises without immediate assistance. If the problem doesn’t ease up, then you can think about reaching out to senior workers.

6. Adaptability

Our work environment is changing rapidly these days. Your tendency to adapt and stay flexible to updates, new technologies, workflows, and processes is important.

7. Collaboration/Teamwork

Collaboration or Teamwork is very important for the success of remote jobs. You might be required to work with different people from unique backgrounds and upbringings.

Being able to efficiently move work forward with different people would help your cause and the Job.

8. Reliability

This is not a skill you build quickly. It comes from constant dedication to keeping to deadlines. Here, your reputation precedes you. If you’ve garnered a reputation as a defaulter, then you won’t be trusted with roles.

Employers need to trust that remote workers will consistently deliver high-quality work on time, so reliability is key.

9. Cultural Awareness

In distributed teams, understanding and respecting cultural differences among team members can help foster a positive and inclusive work environment.

These skills and more would help to build your reputation and also help you succeed in remote jobs.

Now, tech skills are in demand and pay well for remote jobs. I mean, tech roles are the new oil money. Several tech skills can get your pocket fat.

Related: How To Build Professional Development

What Tech Skills Pay Well For Remote Jobs

Tech skills is the second most used word apart from remote jobs. Everyone wants to be tech-literate nowadays.

My dad won’t stop ringing it in my ears. “Bolu, learn a tech skill”. Whew, soon Dad, soon.

Here are the top tech skills to hone in 2024.

1. Software Development

Software development helps bring ideas to life. They are like builders except they don’t use bricks but lines of code.

To do this, you must be proficient in programming languages such as Python, Java, Javascript and many new ones.

This can lead to lucrative remote opportunities, especially for full-stack developers, mobile app developers, or backend engineers.

2. Cloud Computing

Expertise in cloud platforms like AWS (Amazon Web Services), Azure, or Google Cloud can command high salaries for roles such as cloud architects, DevOps engineers, or cloud solutions architects.

3. Data Science and Machine Learning

Recently, skills in data analysis and machine learning have been valued. Remote roles such as Data Scientists, Data Analysts, Data Engineers and many more are compensated well.

4. Cybersecurity

With the growing need to protect online possessions and details, there is a growing need for proficiency in Cybersecurity.

Other key roles are penetration analysts or security engineers. These roles pay well and are usually remote.

5. Blockchain Development

Knowledge of blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies can lead to lucrative remote roles as blockchain developers, smart contract developers, or blockchain architects.

6. User Interface and User Experience Design

UI/UX design has been in demand for the past few years. This is because it not only deals with the design of digital intermediaries (websites) between consumer and producer.

But, it also helps to understand customer views and ideals for optimum products. The roles in UI/US include UI Designer, UX Designer and many more. The salaries are mouth-watering.

7. Web-Development

Usually, I call this the senior brother to UI/UX design. This is because it does what they do but better because they use codes.

Web development is divided into two; Front-end development and Back-end development. Front-end focuses more on the outward appearances of websites but the back end is concerned with making every click, swipe or touch work perfectly.

Skills in front-end development (HTML, CSS, JavaScript) and back-end development (Node.js, PHP, Ruby on Rails) are valuable for remote roles as web developers or full-stack developers.

8. Mobile Development

Proficiency in mobile app development for iOS (Swift) or Android (Kotlin or Java) can lead to well-paying remote opportunities as mobile app developers or mobile application architects.

These and many more are tech skills that pay handsomely. Other tech skills are Big Data Technologies such as Hadoop, Spark, or Kafka.

Essentially, remember that tech skills and remote jobs go hand in hand. Continuous learning and staying updated with emerging technologies can help tech professionals secure lucrative remote job opportunities.

See: How To Build Social Skills

What Tools Do I Need For A Remote Job

Here are some of the tools needed for effective remote work:

1. Communication Tools

• Video Conferencing: Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet.
• Instant Messaging: Slack, Microsoft Teams, Discord.
• Email: Gmail, Outlook, Thunderbird.

2. Project Management Tools

• Trello: Task management and project organization.
• Asana: Task and project management.
• Jira: Popular for software development projects.
• Monday.com: Versatile project management tool.

3. Collaboration Tools

• Google Workspace (formerly G Suite): Real-time collaboration on documents, spreadsheets, and presentations.
• Microsoft Office 365: Collaboration tools like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Notion: All-in-one workspace for notes, tasks, and collaboration.

4. File Sharing and Storage

• Google Drive: Store, sync, and share files.
• Dropbox: Secure cloud storage and file sharing.
• Microsoft OneDrive: Microsoft’s file storage solution.

5. Virtual Private Network (VPN):

• ExpressVPN, NordVPN, CyberGhost: Securely access company networks and protect data.

6. Remote Desktop Access

• TeamViewer, AnyDesk, Chrome Remote Desktop: Access and control your work computer remotely.

7. Time Tracking and Productivity Tools:

• Toggl: Track time on tasks and projects.
• RescueTime: Monitor time on applications and websites.
• Focus@Will: Music service for focus and productivity.

8. Password Managers

• LastPass, 1Password, Dashlane: Securely manage passwords.

All these tools would help you in your remote work journey. You’re welcome!

Top 10 Sites To Find Remote Jobs

There are quite a few websites out there that are designed to help you find remote job opportunities in different industries.

Some of the popular ones include;

1. Remote.co
2. FlexJobs
3. We work Remotely
4. Remote OK
5. AngelList
6. LinkedIn
7. Indeed
8. Remotive

These platforms offer curated lists, job listings, and aggregations of remote job opportunities in various fields like customer service, design, marketing, programming, and more.

It’s worth checking them out to find remote jobs that align with your skills and preferences.

Don’t forget to follow companies you’re interested in on social media platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn, as they often post remote job openings directly.

Read About: What is Jobshost?

Advantages of Remote Jobs

Just like the lady smiling in that picture above, Remote jobs come with their advantages. One of the advantages is the comfort it brings and less pressure from work environments.

Here are some key advantages of Remote Jobs;

1. Flexibility

In terms of setting your schedule, remote jobs give you that freedom. It gives you a good work-life balance.

Hence, you can do your duties as a good employee but can also live out your days as a happy man or woman.

2. Location Independence

With remote jobs, you can work from anywhere as long as you have a laptop and an internet connection.

You can now be in the Maldives or on vacation and still work. Cool, right?

3. Increased Productivity

Well, while this is an arguable point, it has been proven that people work better from the comfort of their homes than when they are required to go to work.

Some individuals find they are more productive when working remotely due to fewer distractions and interruptions from colleagues.

4. Cost Savings

Here is a list of expenses you can cut off when you don’t go to work.

1. Transportation
2. Dry-Cleaning
3. Meals
4. Borrowing co-workers money
5. and many more.

Remote jobs can help save costs and allow you to enjoy your salary and compensation well.

5. Health Benefits

Take COVID-19 for example, without remote jobs, people would be exposed to nerve-wracking viruses. It also happens with day-to-day life.

With remote jobs, the possibility of being exposed to pandemics or viruses is reduced.

6. Increased Job Satisfaction

Many remote workers report higher job satisfaction due to the flexibility, autonomy, and freedom associated with remote work arrangements.

7. Access to a Global Talent Pool

Employers can tap into a wider talent pool by hiring remote workers from different geographical locations, leading to greater diversity and expertise within teams.

These and more are the many advantages of remote jobs. They contribute to a more flexible, satisfying and efficient way of working.

Could there possibly be disadvantages to such an exemplary concept?

See: Best Websites for Freelance Writer Jobs

Disadvantages Of Remote Jobs

While remote jobs offer many benefits, they also come with certain disadvantages, including:

1. Social Isolation

Oh, the loneliness and isolation. Imagine, I have been here for hours trying to compile my words to you. I should open a GoFundMe account.

As remote workers, you would miss out on a lot of social interactions that come with the office environment.

2. Communication Challenges

Remote work relies heavily on digital communication tools, which can sometimes lead to misunderstandings, miscommunication, and difficulties in building strong working relationships with colleagues.

3. Blurred Work-Life Boundaries

The line separating your work and personal life would get blurry when remotely working. It can lead to overwork, burnout, and difficulty in establishing a work-life balance.

4. Lack of Supervision and Accountability

It can be extremely difficult to find motivation and focus for remote jobs. You might wake up feeling down but it doesn’t matter.

Like Andrew Tate would say; “It doesn’t matter how you feel, work must go on”.

Accountability is also based on probability. Your word would have to be taken for it and you might fall short due to circumstances.

5. Technological Issues

Various technical issues can arise when working remotely. Examples include; internet outages, software glitches, and hardware malfunctions.

These can disrupt workflow and productivity.

6. Home Distractions

Remote workers may face distractions and interruptions at home, such as household chores, family responsibilities, or noisy environments, which can impact their ability to focus and concentrate on work tasks.

7. Ergonomic Challenges

Working from home may not always provide an ergonomic workspace, leading to potential health issues such as back pain, eye strain, and repetitive strain injuries.

Remote work offers flexibility and autonomy.

Both employers and employees need to be aware of and address these potential disadvantages to ensure a successful remote work experience.

That brings us to the end of this piece on Remote jobs. I hope you enjoyed it though. You have all the information you need now.

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Any Last Words

Is there anything left to say? There is a popular saying in Yoruba “Wherever life is turning into, join it to turn, don’t get left behind”.

That is true even for remote jobs. Get used to the new style of work and don’t get left behind. It can be very easy to stick to the known ways and forget that innovation is constant.

Remote jobs are here to stay.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)