How to Pitch Remote Work
If there is one thing we’ve learned about our jobs during this pandemic, it’s that given the right tools, most of our work can successfully be done from home. For that reason, many employers are considering long-term remote employment options. One of the most notable being Microsoft, who announced they will allow employees to work from home permanently. In addition to cost savings associated with maintaining an office space, another benefit to hiring remote employees, is the opportunity to bring in more skilled and talented associates who may not be in the position to move or have no interest in relocating. Many organizations are adjusting to the new normal and as a result opportunities that did not seem realistic before are now beginning to look more attainable.
Story Time…
A recruiter reached out to me on LinkedIn about an opening at their company. I was interested but noticed they were based in an area to which I wasn’t particularly interested in relocating. I agreed to an initial interview only to learn more about the organization and build rapport with the recruiter (aka network). Going into it with no expectations, I felt I had nothing to lose by asking if they would consider making the role remote or contract. To my surprise, the company was willing to consider it. Eight interviews later, I was the top candidate for the role.
Now this story does not have a fairy tale ending because ultimately I was not selected for the role. After further discussion, the team felt it best to hire someone who would eventually work from the corporate office. And although they tried to persuade me to reconsider, I was firm in my decision to not relocate to that area.
To be honest, I debated writing this post because the scenario did not end with me getting the job and living happily ever after. However, I think it’s still important to share because I want to encourage you to open your mind to a possibility that you may not have even considered. Who knows….this could work for you!
The main question, you’re probably asking is “Katerra, wasn’t this just a waste of time for you and the company?”. For me the answer is “no”. I do not consider this a waste of time because: 1) Should the company have any remote opportunities in other departments I’ll be the first person they call and 2) I made a favorable connection with a corporate recruiter. Should that person leave the organization and go elsewhere, perhaps they’ll keep me in mind for roles at their new company.
Types of work to pitch…
Permanently remote = a role in which there is little to no expectation for you to ever work from the corporate/regional office. You would meet virtually if need be and conduct all of your work from home.
Permanently Remote w/Travel = a role in which there is an expectation of regular or frequent travel. You’ll likely conduct your day-to-day responsibilities from home but you’ll travel for major meetings, conferences, or client interactions.
Temporary Remote w/ eventual relocation = There are a lot of roles available now that are temporarily remote role with an expectation that Post-Covid you’ll relocate so you can work from the office.
Contract Remote with End Date = this is the more traditional concept of contract work in which there is a firm end or re-evaluation date. You may be asked to complete a few projects to help the organization fill a gap until they can bring someone on in a permanent capacity.
Keep in mind…
This will not work for all companies or roles. Many positions require you to be in an office setting and therefore, pitching remote work is irrelevant. However, if the recruiter or hiring manager mentions that the company has been or is currently working remote through next spring, it’s an indication that most of their work can effectively be down from home so it’s worth asking.
Also consider pitching contract/temporary work. It allows you to add experience to your resumé and hone your skill set as well as helps the company get some much needed work done.
Before you pitch…
Make sure you’re qualified
Employers are more willing to take a chance on someone that meets or exceeds the qualifications for the role
Highlight relevant strengths
You’ll want to highlight your strengths that would be ideal in a remote candidate (self-starter, high integrity, great communication skills, etc). Now may not be the time to highlight how well you work in a collaborative in-office environment when you are trying to convince someone that you can successfully work from home independently. You need to show that you can work productively on your own without oversight.
Know the market
Find other companies in the same industry that are exploring the option of remote employees. It will help support your argument.
What’s in it for the company
Obviously working from home is convenient for you but most importantly how does the employer benefit from hiring you remotely. It could be cost savings from a ‘would-be’ relocation. You can also be the eyes and ears for your local market.
Just ask…
Can’t hurt to ask, especially in the current climate. Not sure what to say? Try something simple like “As I read the job description, it did not specify if this role was in office or remote. Can you clarify for me please?” They will clarify at which point you can start to make your pitch.
In Conclusion…
Organizations are quickly learning that they need to adapt to the changing environment and be open to exploring untraditional work options. Now is the time to create a new normal and put yourself out there in ways you didn’t think possible.
Good Luck!