How To Write a Resume For Remote Jobs

Introduction.

Remote work is more popular than ever. More companies are offering flexible work options, and the number of people looking for remote opportunities has skyrocketed. But here’s the thing—landing a remote job isn’t just about having the right skills.

It’s also about presenting yourself as someone who can thrive in a remote environment. And that starts with your resume.

Writing a resume for a remote job isn’t quite the same as crafting one for an office-based role. Employers are looking for specific qualities—self-motivation, strong communication, and tech-savviness, to name a few.

If you’re applying for remote positions, you’ll need to tweak your resume to highlight these abilities while showcasing your experience and achievements.

This guide breaks it all down step by step so you can create a resume that stands out and gets noticed.

How Do I Write a Resume for Remote Jobs?

1. Start With a Clean and Simple Layout

First impressions matter, and your resume’s design is the first thing recruiters will notice. Keep it simple and easy to read.

Use a clean font (like Arial or Calibri), consistent spacing, and clear section headers. Avoid overly creative designs unless you’re in a field like graphic design where this might be expected.

2. Write a Tailored Summary Statement

Your summary should be a snapshot of who you are and why you’re a great fit for the remote role. For example:

“Experienced digital marketer with five years of remote work experience, skilled in managing campaigns and driving engagement for global audiences. Adept at using tools like Slack, Asana, and Google Analytics to collaborate and deliver results in virtual teams.”

This immediately highlights both your experience and your ability to work remotely.

3. Focus on Remote-Specific Skills

When listing skills, think beyond the technical ones required for the job. Include skills that are crucial for remote work, like:

Time management
Written and verbal communication
Tech proficiency (video conferencing tools, project management software)
Self-discipline
Problem-solving

4. Showcase Remote Work Experience

If you’ve worked remotely before, make it obvious. Mention it in your job titles or descriptions. For example:

“Remote Marketing Manager”
“Managed a virtual team of designers and writers across three time zones to deliver projects on deadline.”

If you haven’t worked remotely but have experience working independently or collaborating online, highlight that instead.

5. Highlight Achievements That Matter

Focus on measurable results. Employers care about the impact you’ve made. Instead of saying:

“Led social media campaigns”
Try:
“Increased social media engagement by 35% in six months through targeted campaigns.”

Numbers stand out and show that you deliver results.

6. Optimize for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)

Many companies use ATS software to screen resumes. To get past this step, include relevant keywords from the job description.

For example, if the listing mentions “project management,” make sure that phrase appears naturally in your resume.

7. Include Your Tech Tools Knowledge

Remote work relies heavily on technology. List tools you’re comfortable with, such as:

Zoom
Slack
Trello
Microsoft Teams
Dropbox
This shows recruiters you’re ready to jump into a remote setup.

8. Don’t Skip Soft Skills

Remote work demands certain personality traits. Employers want someone who can stay productive without constant supervision. Words like “self-starter,” “proactive,” and “adaptable” can help you stand out.

9. Add a Remote-Friendly Cover Letter

While it’s not part of your resume, a tailored cover letter can make a big difference. Use it to explain why you’re excited about working remotely and how your experience makes you a perfect fit for the role.

A Sample Resume Layout for Remote Jobs

Here’s a basic structure to guide you:

Contact Information

Name
Phone number
Professional email address
LinkedIn profile (optional)

Professional Summary
A concise overview of your experience, skills, and suitability for remote work.

Skills
List hard and soft skills relevant to the role and remote work.

Work Experience
Detail your job history with a focus on achievements, responsibilities, and remote-specific experience.

Education
Include degrees, certifications, or courses that relate to the job.

Additional Sections (optional)

Certifications: Mention relevant courses like “Project Management for Remote Teams.”
Languages: If you’re applying to global companies, this can set you apart.

FAQs

Q: Should I include my location on a remote job resume?

A: It depends. If the role is open to candidates from anywhere, you can leave it off or write something like “Available for remote work worldwide.” If the company has specific location preferences, include your city and state.

Q: How do I handle gaps in my resume?

A: Be honest and focus on what you did during that time—freelancing, volunteering, or taking courses can all be framed positively.

Q: What if I don’t have remote work experience?

A: Highlight transferable skills and experiences. For instance, if you’ve worked independently, managed projects online, or used remote collaboration tools, mention those.