How to Make Your Remote Job Application Stand Out | FlexJobs (2024)

The growth of remote work has been astounding, to say the least. So, whether you want a permanently remote job or a job that’s remote for right now, the fact is, there can be lots of competition when you’re applying for a work-from-home job.

Like any application, you want yours to stand out from the rest of the crowd. And though that includes writing a customized cover letter and tailored resume, when you’re applying for a remote job, you’ve also got to convince the employer that you’re not just the best applicant, you’re the best remote applicant.

How do you set yourself apart from the competition so that you can score that remote gig? Here are some suggestions.

Talk Up Your Experience

Have you worked remotely before? If so, that’s something you should highlight in your application. It’s a great way to signal to the employer that you aren’t just trying out remote work—you really love it, and it works for you.

Make sure to mention your previous remote work experience in the first paragraph of your cover letter and throughout your resume. Explain the type of remote work you did, how it benefitted the companies you worked for, and why you’re eager for other remote opportunities.

Highlight Collaboration

If you’re interested in applying for a remote job but think you don’t have the necessary remote work experience to be considered, think again! Many of the everyday tasks you do in your current (and previous) job are exactly the kinds of skills remote employers look for in their staff.

For example, if you worked with colleagues who were in a different physical office on a project that required remote collaboration (think: using a shared document or project management tool), talking that experience up shows that you’re tech-savvy and can work long distance.

Make sure you highlight this remote-specific experience on your application. For example, on your resume, you could include:

• Collaborate with coworkers in other offices via Google Docs
• Use Trello to track project progress with distributed team members

Show Your Communication Skills

One of the more unique aspects of remote work is how communication happens. You can’t just pop by a coworker’s desk to ask a question. Instead, your communication is often asynchronous and written.

Showcase your written communication skills, and mention how you’re familiar with Slack or other messaging platforms. And, talk about how you manage your expectations while you wait for a response or how you solved an issue on your own.

Also, make sure you discuss your other communication skills, such as how you use Zoom or Google Meet for meetings. And, explain how you know when something requires a verbal follow-up versus a written one.

Ace the Interview

In many respects, a remote interview is no different than an in-person one. You’ll still dress your best, prepare your answers to common (and less common) interview questions, and find a way to make yourself shine.

However, unlike an in-person interview, you’ll likely be at home. So, make sure you have a fantastic remote interview spot set aside for the event. If you don’t have a dedicated home office, find someplace that’s quiet and well-lit.

Also, test your tech before the big day. Make sure your software is up to date and can use whatever platform the company interviews on, and have a backup plan in case the power or internet is having problems that day.

Stand Out and Get Noticed

Highlighting your remote experience is one of the best ways to help your job application stand out. By demonstrating to employers that you’ve got the remote work skills they’re looking for, you’ll stand out from the pack.

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