Remote work has become increasingly popular in recent years, with more professionals expressing a desire to work from anywhere. According to a recent FlexJobs survey, approximately 75% of professionals would be willing to take up a remote working policy, even if it meant making sacrifices such as taking a pay cut, increasing working hours, or reducing PTO. Millennials, in particular, are the generation most likely to prioritize location independence over traditional workplace benefits.
To successfully make the case for remote work to your employer or secure a remote role at a remote-first or flexible working company, it is essential to demonstrate that you possess the necessary skills. Some skill sets are more in-demand in the world of remote work and digital nomadism than others. According to FlexJobs’ 2024 Digital Nomad Guide to Work-From-Anywhere Careers, the following jobs are highlighted as being the most in demand by employers for remote positions:
– Account executive
– Content writer
– Data analyst
– DevOps engineer
– Editor
– Engineering manager
– Marketing manager
– Product designer
– Product manager
– Software engineer
To excel in these roles and stand out as a top candidate, it is crucial to possess a specific set of technical and soft skills. Here is a breakdown of the most desired skills needed by employers for these in-demand remote roles:
1. Relationship-Building:
Building strong relationships with colleagues, clients, and partners is essential for success in remote work. Employers value candidates who can demonstrate their ability to cultivate partnerships, manage stakeholders, and handle complex negotiations.
2. Communication Skills:
Effective communication is key in remote work, especially in roles that require written and oral communication skills. Whether you are an account executive, content writer, or software engineer, the ability to communicate clearly and effectively is crucial.
3. Analytical Skills:
Analytical skills are essential for roles that involve data analysis, problem-solving, and decision-making. Proficiency in analyzing data and making informed decisions is particularly important for roles like data analyst, DevOps engineer, and product manager.
4. Project Management:
Project management skills are valuable in ensuring well-organized collaboration on projects. Professionals in management, leadership, marketing, and editing roles can benefit from strong project management skills.
5. Technical Proficiency:
Having a thorough understanding of the technology stack used in your industry and role is essential for remote work. Familiarity with industry-specific software and remote collaboration tools is crucial for efficiency and productivity.
6. Adaptability:
Adaptability is a highly sought-after skill in today’s fast-paced work environment. Employers value candidates who can adapt to change and maintain a positive attitude in the face of challenges.
7. Leadership Skills:
Leadership skills indicate a candidate’s ability to take ownership and responsibility for their work. Even if you are not in a leadership role, possessing leadership skills can contribute to a cohesive remote work environment.
8. Collaboration:
Collaboration is essential for remote work, as it involves working with individuals across different functions and locations. Knowing how to collaborate effectively and pull the best outcomes from team members is a valuable skill.
9. Customer-Centric Mindset:
Many remote roles require a focus on customer needs and requirements. Product designers and product managers, in particular, must design products that meet customer expectations and factor in aesthetics and usability.
10. Problem-Solving Skills:
Problem-solving skills are highly valued by employers, as they demonstrate an individual’s ability to come up with creative solutions to challenges. In a rapidly evolving workforce, the ability to solve problems efficiently is a valuable asset.
By developing and emphasizing these 10 in-demand skills, you can increase your hireability and success in remote roles. Whether you are seeking a remote job or looking to make the case for remote work to your employer, possessing these skills will set you apart as a top candidate in the competitive remote work landscape.
