If 2020 has taught the professional world anything, it’s “expect the unexpected.” Sometimes commuting physically to work is no longer possible. Even prior to COVID, advantages to the work-at-home lifestyle were becoming increasingly apparent. How, though, do you find these virtual tech jobs, especially as we emerge into our “new normal” of a world, and what skills do you need to be successful when attempting to stand out in the online job market?

Top 7 Advantages of Pursuing a Remote Career

COVID-19 allowed employers to see how productive it can be to allow employees to do their work from home. Initially, many felt that working from home during the government-mandated closure was like being thrown into a swimming pool and being expected to swim. It was unexpected and chaotic, but many were up to the challenge. Most have now adapted to the new normal.

After all the dust has settled it is evident that there are a number of advantages for work-from-home employees:

1. No commute.

If you live a busy lifestyle, you know just how hectic mornings can be. With remote work, you have the option to avoid the daily commute. This means less stress, fewer transportation costs, and more time with the people that are important in your life.

2. Being able to make your own schedule.

Depending on the career, setting your own timetable may be an option. If you work better in the afternoon or evening, you may have the ability to work at that time. Set the time that works for you to be the most productive.

3. Fewer distractions.

Cutting out noise from other employees or crazy office shenanigans gives you full reign to stay focused and on top of your work. Suddenly you may find yourself shifting gears from overwhelmed to zoned in.

4. Comfortable work environment.

Whether you want to work from the comfort of your couch or find yourself drawn to a cozy coffee shop, choosing a relaxing work environment can make all of the difference. Rather than uncomfortable office chairs and harsh lighting, remote work means you can make sure you have all the supplies you need to be physically at ease.

5. Save money on a wardrobe.

Not needing to dress up daily comes with some perks! Sure, you may want to throw on a blazer for that Zoom meeting, but generally, you’ll have the opportunity to wear what’s already in your closet and repeat outfits more frequently.

6. Take your work mobile.

If you’re a big traveler, this is so important. The luxury of online work means you can take your laptop pretty much everywhere. In this high-paced and ultra-connected world, and wherever there’s WiFi, you can work! Spend your day in the hotel room, spend your evenings wherever you choose to or need to travel.

7. Avoid office politics.

The headache that is corporate (or even small business) drama can be a distraction and be a heavy weight on your shoulders. Turns out that when coordinating distantly via chats, emails, and calls, there is less time for social politics and more drive to cut to the chase. 

What Jobs Are a Possibility and What Skills to Develop

With COVID severely shifting the world’s perspective on working, productivity, and efficiency, many jobs have gone remote or will, in the future, be transferred fully to at-home positions. Traditionally, tech jobs like the following have been more likely to be completed remotely.

• Web and Mobile Programmer - $96,016 / yr
• Junior Web Designer & Developer - $49,550 / yr
• Customer Service Representative - $27,834 / yr
• User Experience Analyst - $94,765 / yr
• Software Developer - $76,526 / yr
• Database Administrator - $78,779 / yr
• Customer Success Engineer - $64,682 / yr
• Digital Marketing Specialist - $57,473 / yr
• Social Media Manager - $50,473 / yr
• IT Project Manager - $66,137 / yr

And that’s just a small sample of pre-existing virtual tech jobs. However, as the world continues to grapple with COVID more and more positions will be converted to remote work. It’s best practice to prepare for this transition now, making you stand out in the labor market.

While each job will require its own range of skills and qualifications, all remote work has basic principle skills that you can start developing now such as:

• Database Management (i.e. Salesforce)
• Time Management and Organization
• Online Meeting Administration
• Professional Internal Corporate Communication (i.e. emails, IMs, conference calls)
• Independent Problem Solving
• Task Delegation

11 Employers That Hire Virtual Employees

It is helpful to know what companies hire workers for virtual tech jobs so you can evaluate the skills you will need to be considered for positions with those companies. You will want to look for companies that offer the work from home opportunities that best align with your expectations. 

So, if you’re ready to send off that resume and cover letter, here’s where you may want to begin:

1. Adobe
2. Dell
3. Apple
4. PNC
5. Walt Disney Company
6. Toggl
7. Working Solutions
8. X-Team
9. American Express
10. Blue Cross Blue Shield
11. CenturyLink

Conclusion

Ready to step into the future? Get in touch with a NuPaths Career Specialist to establish specific goals to support your success. Your work-from-home career can be right around the corner and the skills you need can be developed through programs that your Career Specialist can help connect you with. 

Virtual work is the new normal and the tech world is ready to tackle this change. Are you? Click here for our free career evaluation and get started today!