Finding Virtual Work

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TIPS FOR FINDING

VIRTUAL WORK

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So, you’re interested in the world of virtual work.

You may be wondering, “Where do I begin?”

This section will fill you in on everything you need to know before you start your job hunt.

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APPLYING FOR JOBS ONLINE

If you’re interested in seeing what kinds of jobs are out there, check out some of our recommended job boards for virtual work in the guide’s Virtual Work Resources section.

Job boards are a great place to look as many of them include virtual work opportunities. Many of these websites are updated daily and include job postings from around the world.

Most job boards allow you to attach a resume to your profile, which allows for a quick application process. However, be sure to read the job posting thoroughly as some postings will request you to apply through a specific email and/or include a cover letter for the position. Consider making a different copy of your resume geared to the each type of position you apply to, in order to best communicate the types of skills and experience an employer may be looking for.

'RED FLAGS' IN JOB POSTINGS

While the world of virtual work is full of many fulfilling opportunities for employment, there are some ‘employers’ who take advantage of virtual communication for criminal purposes. We’ve compiled a list of some of the things that you should be on the lookout for when applying through job boards.

Requests for payment or personal information:

Occasionally, you may see a posting that says you’ll need to pay for your training or equipment upfront. You may also receive requests to provide an employer with your social insurance number or banking details before you’ve received an official job offer or contract. It is strongly advised that you stay away from any job posting that asks for your personal information or expects any form of payment in order to be considered for a position.

The job posting is vague or filled with errors:

This one can be a bit hard to determine, as we’re all prone to making spelling mistakes. But if the job posting seems sloppy or is missing important information, the job posting is likely fake. Legitimate companies take care in how the business is represented online and want to provide detailed information about a job opening in order to find the best fit for the position.

No online presence:

If the job posting seems fishy, you can verify its legitimacy by searching the company’s name. Real companies will typically have websites that display its products or services and contact information. You can usually determine if the company is real by locating a company address on Google Maps and finding it in the Better Business Bureau and the Chamber of Commerce. If the results come up short, it’s more than likely you’re dealing with a scammer.

Find company reviews:

Similar to finding a company’s online presence, you should also be able to find online company reviews written by former employees. Take a look on Glassdoor or Indeed to see how employees rate the company and note what they have to say about it. If the reviews are mostly negative, it could be a warning sign that the company is poorly managed or employee morale is low.

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of all jobs are filled via networking. This is because most people tend to conduct business with people they know, like, and trust. Traditionally, networking would take place during in-person events or one-on-one coffee chats. With virtual work, networking can be done from anywhere in the world. Consider following this guide on virtual networking for a job.

TAPPING INTO YOUR NETWORKS

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When you initially

enter the virtual

workplace you might not find a full-time position immediately.

Starting your own business or selling your services as an independent contractor can provide you with ample work experience and an income source.

Entrepreneurs and virtual work

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PREPARING FOR

THE INTERVIEW

Regardless of how you learn

of a virtual opportunity, the next step is to research the company that’s offering the role. When it comes time

for your interview, the hiring manager(s) will likely be interested in hearing about why you want to work with them. Review the following resource about what else to

do before your interview.

Make sure you have a quiet space to take the phone or video call. If you don’t live alone, let your household members know that you’ll need their help to create a calm and distraction-free environment while you complete the interview.

If you’re doing the interview over video, make sure you have an appropriate background behind you. Consider having your back to a wall if possible.

Dress up for the interview as though you were going to meet the interviewer in person. This can help you feel more professional and motivated to represent yourself as best as you can.

Feel free to keep your notes close. Don’t be too reliant on these, but do take a glance at them from time to time to make sure you haven’t forgotten any key points you want to bring up.