INSIDE: Wondering how the remote contracting process works? Every company does things a little differently, but in general, there is a fairly simple process that most follow. Learn what to expect right here!
If this is your first time looking for a work-from-home opportunity, you’re probably overwhelmed with excitement at the possibilities. There are so many opportunities to choose from. You look forward to the potential freedom that comes with a remote position. And of course you want to avoid rush hour traffic twice a day!
But then, anxiety arises. What does this job search really entail? How do you interview for a remote work? 
How the remote contracting process works
Each remote company has its own interview process. It can also vary depending on the type of remote job you are looking for. In today’s post, we’ll share a bit about how the remote hiring process works and some things you can probably expect.
Submit your application online
The first step obviously is to apply for a job of interest. This is done entirely online. Most of the larger companies will have a career center on their website where you can provide your information and upload a resume. If you’re applying for a remote job at a smaller company, you may need to email your resume along with a cover letter.
No matter where you apply, check the instructions again and again. Many companies will include specific instructions that must be followed in order to be considered for a job. This is especially the case for businesses that require you to email them. They may request a subject line or specific text within their email. If you do not follow these instructions exactly, you may be automatically disqualified as a candidate.
Take a skills test
Depending on the job you are applying for, the next step in the hiring process may be a skills-based pre-employment test. If the company you’re applying to has a career portal on their website, a test may even be part of the application process.
Worried about how your skills stack up compared to other remote candidates? There are plenty of websites to test your typing, grammar, communication, and other skills typically sought after by an employer. For FlexJobs members or if you belong to a remote job site like Upwork, those sites also have skills tests available.
Instead of a skills test, you may be asked to provide work samples if you’re applying for a job in an industry like freelance writing or graphic design.
Take a team test
You may need to perform a computer test. This is especially the case with customer service jobs. Many require special software to be installed, and Internet speed is important to ensure customers don’t get disconnected. A company may also check your computer’s operating system and available memory to make sure your equipment is compatible and up-to-date.
Before allowing remote access to your computer, make sure you know who you’re dealing with and never download software from a website you don’t know or trust. Many scammers will pose as legitimate businesses, so always double check email addresses and URLs.
Some companies supply equipment! Check out legit jobs from home that provide equipment here!
Do a remote interview
Once you’ve gotten through the preliminary steps, you may be invited for a remote interview. This can be done over the phone, but a video interview is also a popular option today. With the latter, you can meet with a hiring manager via Zoom or Skype. (Side note: a legitimate company will NOT ask you to interview via Facebook Messenger or some other instant messaging service. This is a sure sign of a scam.)
During the virtual interview, you’ll likely be asked those common questions that trip us all up. So be prepared to answer things like:
- Why are you a good candidate for this job?
- Give an example of a time you solved a problem at work.
- What are you looking for in a remote job?
You should also prepare answers to common questions about remote work, such as:
- Why do you want to work from home?
- Give an example of a time when you worked on a project independently.
- How do you stay motivated when you are not supervised?
You should also use this time to ask any questions you may have about the job. This is encouraging. If you have questions about the schedule, project duration, or opportunities for promotion as a remote team member, bring it up. And always ask about the next step in the process. When can you expect to hear from the hiring manager?
Complete your onboarding and training
Once hired, you’ll begin an onboarding process that may include paperwork for new remote employees and signing contracts and nondisclosure agreements. You will also be required to complete some training as a new remote worker, which will also likely be done entirely online. Once complete, you can start working remotely!
Final Thoughts on How the Remote Hiring Process Works
As you can see, the hiring process for a remote job is just as intense as applying for an on-site job. Because there are so many people applying for jobs online, the process for hiring remote workers usually consists of several steps. Many people are discouraged when they find out that getting hired for a remote job can be a long process. Do not give up! Complying with him is half the battle.
Check out these tips for getting a job from home!
