How To Get Remote US Jobs

Introduction.

If you’ve been thinking about finding a remote job in the U.S., you’re definitely not alone. The world of work has changed in a big way in recent years, and remote opportunities are now more common than ever.

It’s no longer just tech workers who get to enjoy the perks of working from home — people in all sorts of industries can now apply for remote positions.

But how do you actually find one? That’s where this guide comes in. In the next few paragraphs, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about landing a remote job in the U.S.

I’ll cover tips on where to look for opportunities, how to make your resume stand out, and what skills you might want to focus on. By the end of this article, you’ll feel more confident and prepared to start your job search.

How Do I Get Remote US Jobs?

1. Understand the Remote Job Market

Before diving into the job search, it’s a good idea to get a feel for the remote job market. Over the last few years, remote work has exploded in popularity.

According to a report by FlexJobs, 65% of employees worked remotely at least part-time in 2023, and that number is expected to keep growing.

Many companies are embracing remote work because it gives them access to a broader talent pool, and employees get the flexibility they want.

If you’re aiming to work remotely for a U.S.-based company, know that the competition can be fierce.

The rise of remote work means that people from all around the world are applying for U.S. jobs, so you’ll need to stand out.

That said, there are many ways to do this, and there are plenty of resources that can help you along the way.

2. Know Where to Look for Remote Jobs

The first step in getting a remote job is knowing where to look. There are a lot of websites and platforms that focus solely on remote opportunities, making it easier for job seekers to find positions they can apply for.

Here are a few places to get you started:

• Remote job boards: Websites like We Work Remotely, Remote.co, and FlexJobs specialize in remote job listings. These platforms allow you to filter by job type, industry, and location, which makes your search a lot easier. FlexJobs, in particular, offers a curated list of legitimate remote opportunities, but it does require a subscription.
• General job boards: Popular platforms like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor also offer remote job listings. Make sure to use the “remote” filter when searching to find relevant openings.
• Company websites: If there’s a particular company you’d love to work for, it’s always worth checking their career page. Many companies now offer remote positions, and applying directly through their site can sometimes give you a leg up over candidates using job boards.
• Networking: Sometimes, jobs aren’t even listed online. Networking is key when it comes to remote job opportunities. Join online communities, attend virtual events, and engage with people in your industry on social media (LinkedIn is especially useful for this).

3. Tailor Your Resume for Remote Work

When you apply for remote jobs, your resume needs to highlight the skills and experience that show you’re suited to work from home.

Employers want to know that you’re self-motivated, able to manage your time effectively, and can work independently.

Here are some tips for tailoring your resume:

• Highlight remote work experience: If you’ve worked remotely before, make sure that’s front and center on your resume. Even if it was a part-time gig, include it and explain what you accomplished while working remotely.
• Emphasize relevant skills: Skills like communication, time management, problem-solving, and tech-savviness are crucial for remote work. Be sure to showcase these in your resume and cover letter.
• Use the right keywords: Remote jobs often have specific terms that employers look for. Make sure you use keywords like “remote,” “distributed team,” “virtual,” and “telecommute” in your resume to ensure your application gets noticed.
• Showcase your ability to work independently: Remote jobs often require a lot of self-discipline. Include examples of how you’ve managed projects or worked without supervision in the past. If you can show that you can stay on top of tasks without constant oversight, you’ll stand out.

4. Set Up Your Online Presence

Having an online presence is important when looking for remote work. Many employers use platforms like LinkedIn to search for candidates, so having an up-to-date, professional profile is essential.

Here’s how you can improve your online presence:

• Update your LinkedIn profile: Make sure it clearly states that you’re open to remote opportunities. Also, list all your skills, especially those relevant to remote work (like communication tools, project management software, or any tech skills).
• Create a portfolio: If you’re in a field like writing, design, or development, having an online portfolio can make a huge difference. This is a great way to show off your work to potential employers.
• Use other platforms: If you’re a freelancer or working in a creative field, consider using sites like Upwork, Freelancer, or Fiverr to find remote gigs. Even if you’re not a freelancer, these platforms can help you build a portfolio and get noticed by companies offering full-time remote work.

5. Prepare for Remote Interviews

Getting invited to an interview for a remote job is exciting, but it also comes with its own set of challenges.

Remote interviews are often done over video, which means it’s essential to make a good impression virtually.

Here are some tips for acing your remote interview:

• Check your tech: Make sure your internet connection is stable, your microphone and camera work well, and your background is tidy. The last thing you want is a technical glitch that disrupts your interview.
• Dress professionally: Even though you’re at home, dress as if you’re going into an office. It helps you feel more confident and shows the employer that you take the interview seriously.
• Be prepared to talk about remote work: Since you’re applying for a remote job, expect questions about how you handle remote work. Be ready to talk about how you stay organized, manage your time, and communicate with teams when working from home.

6. Top Remote Job Categories to Consider

While remote jobs are available across almost every industry, some fields are more likely to offer remote positions than others.

If you’re still figuring out which career path to take, here are some industries with a high demand for remote workers:

• Technology: Software development, IT support, and project management are just a few of the tech roles that often allow remote work.
• Marketing: Digital marketing, content creation, SEO, and social media management can all be done remotely.
• Customer service: Many companies offer remote customer service roles, including positions in call centers or chat support.
• Writing & Editing: If you have writing, editing, or proofreading skills, there are plenty of freelance and full-time remote opportunities in content creation.
• Sales: Remote sales jobs, such as sales representatives and account managers, are common, especially in industries like tech and e-commerce.
• Design: Graphic designers, web designers, and UX/UI designers are all in demand and can typically work remotely.

7. Be Patient and Persistent

Finding a remote job can take time. It’s important to stay patient and keep applying to positions that match your skills and interests.

It may take a few weeks (or even months) to land your dream job, but persistence pays off. Keep refining your resume, networking, and applying, and eventually, the right opportunity will come along.

FAQs

Q: Can I apply for remote jobs in the U.S. if I live outside the country?

A: Yes, many companies offer remote jobs to people outside the U.S. But you’ll need to check the job listing to see if they accept international applicants. Some companies prefer applicants within the U.S. for legal or time zone reasons.

Q: Do remote jobs pay as well as office jobs?

A: It depends on the company and the role. Some remote jobs offer the same salary as their in-office counterparts, while others might offer slightly lower wages. However, remote jobs can save you money on commuting and work attire, which is a nice perk.

Q: What tools should I be familiar with for remote work?

A: Most remote jobs require familiarity with communication tools (like Slack or Zoom), project management software (like Trello or Asana), and file-sharing platforms (like Google Drive or Dropbox).

Conclusion

Finding a remote job in the U.S. can be a game-changer, offering flexibility, better work-life balance, and the chance to work with top companies without leaving your home.

With the right tools, approach, and persistence, landing that dream job is totally achievable. Are you ready to take the leap into remote work?