There are more remote jobs than ever in 2020. However, if you’ve never searched for a virtual position before, it’s difficult to know where to start. Where do you look, and how can you tell if postings are real and not a scam? The staffing agency experts at Murray Resources have the answers. Here’s what you need to know:

Think about whether virtual is what you want for the long-term.

Right now, you might not have a choice depending on your field due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, is working remotely ideal for you in the big picture? Or are you simply willing to work on a hybrid or remote schedule until this challenging season passes?

It’s important to ask yourself this question because it will impact which jobs and employers you apply to. Many companies today are seeing the benefits that come with having a flexible, remote workforce. However, remote work isn’t for everyone, and this doesn’t mean it’s your only option forever. If you’d eventually prefer to be back in an office, in person, make sure you’re discussing this during interviews and with potential employers.

Edit your resume to reflect your ability to work remotely.

If you’re applying for a remote position instead of an on-site one, you’ll want to modify your resume to make it clear you can work well in this type of environment. List any past virtual experience you have and also discuss how you work well independently.

In addition, showcase specific examples of projects or achievements you’ve performed remotely or independently. This will let hiring managers know you’re productive in this kind of a role.

Finally, if the employer uses a specific platform or online tool to manage remote work, highlight the experience you have with it, as well. The more you can make the pitch that you’re the right fit for a full-time remote job, the better your chance of finding one.

Make sure you include “remote” keywords on your resume.

Use keywords to make your resume stand out to the Applicant Tracking Systems most employers use these days. For instance, include “remote” in the title of your resume and sprinkle it throughout. Also, use other keywords, such as “work-at-home,” “virtual,” and “telecommute.”

Use online job boards and social media to find remote jobs.

In the past, when you were looking for a job, you participated in job fairs or attended networking events. Those days are gone, at least for now.

Instead, when you’re looking for a virtual position, turn to job boards that advertise them, such as RemoteOK, Virtual Vocations, or FlexJobs. You can also look to the more traditional major job board apps, such as these, and simply use keywords – like “remote” and “telecommute” – in your search.

Another place to look for a remote job is on social media. With in-person networking and job fairs on pause for a while, more companies are turning to social media to recruit.

If you don’t find what you’re looking for now, create job alerts on these sites. These will notify you of new openings for remote positions as they are posted.

Assess whether a position is a real one or a scam.

It’s true that sometimes a position might sound authentic when it’s really a scam or pyramid scheme situation. Be on the lookout for these. Oftentimes, they’ll ask for private information, like your Social Security Number or birth date, or some kind of payment to apply. A legitimate employer will never ask for these details. If you come across one that does, report it to the job board that listed it.

Do you need professional help from a staffing agency finding your next telecommuting job?

Read this post for a few more tips on finding your next job, or simply turn to Murray Resources for help. As an award-winning agency serving the Houston, TX area, we’re in the business of connecting talented candidates with rewarding opportunities, whether you’re looking for a remote role or an on-site one. Contact us today to get started or search our jobs now.