The COVID-19 pandemic dramatically transformed professional life overnight. As companies struggled to adapt in March 2020, tech workers had a front-row seat to the rapid shift to remote work. Many predicted that tech jobs would be immune to the economic fallout from the virus. However, this optimism turned out to be naive.
Almost three years later, the technology industry suffers deep scars from the pandemic that still continues. Budget cuts and hiring freezes are now commonplace.
Los despidos masivos, que alguna vez fueron inauditos en las prósperas empresas tecnológicas, se han convertido en una nueva realidad ineludible. The lucky employed tech workers left behind find themselves in constant tension, wracked by survivor’s guilt and anxiety over who will be “closed” next.
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The numbers paint a sobering picture. More than 150,000 US tech workers have lost their jobs since March 2020, and more than 80,000 were laid off in 2022 alone.
Once unstoppable tech sectors like cryptocurrencies and e-commerce suffered massive layoffs, companies like Coinbase, Robinhood, and Shopify cut 30% to 40% of their workforce. Mass layoffs over video conferencing are so common that “being on Zoom” has become workplace slang, evoking the fear of seeing that surprise meeting appear on your calendar.
With more people losing their jobs and many more looking to work remotely, how can you stand out and secure your ideal remote position?
This comprehensive guide outlines key strategies to successfully land a rewarding remote job this year.
Have you ever wondered why you want to be a tech expert? If not, you should read this before continuing: Think twice before becoming a tech expert.
Be clear about what you want
Before you begin your search, be clear about the type of remote provision you want. Determine if you are looking for full-time employment or if you are open to freelance work and flexible hours. Also consider expected compensation, must-have benefits, jobs you’re interested in, and skill requirements for target roles. Defining your remote work priorities allows for a focused and streamlined job search process.
Take advantage of specialized remote job sites
Industry-specific, remote-focused job boards like FlexJobs, We Work Remotely, Remote.co, and PowerToFly let you quickly find and apply for open positions that match your experience.
Find links to all the above platforms here:
Set up alerts on these sites to be notified when new relevant listings are posted so you can be the first applicant. The opportunities reviewed in these specialized forums also help minimize the risks of remote work scams.
Network strategically and leverage your contacts
Networking remains one of the most effective ways to discover unadvertised vacancies. Reach out to people you already know (via email, LinkedIn, Twitter, Slack, or community forums) who work in your field of interest.
Briefly share your experience, interests, and job search as you seek professional advice and references. Warm communication by leveraging existing connections produces better response rates than emailing strangers.
Find applicant tracking systems
Many companies use platforms such as Greenhouse, Lever, SmartRecruiters and Workday to manage recruiting. You can discover unpublished vacancies by searching “[ATS name] + [job title or keywords]” directly on Google or Twitter. For example, “site: lever.co remote writer” or “SmartRecruiters location: Vancouver.”
Connect on LinkedIn with recruiters at the companies you want to target to introduce yourself when relevant positions open.
Use cold outreach and job references
While cold contact can be unpredictable, emailing companies directly produces better results than waiting for opportunities to find you. Start by researching the target company.