Remote work has evolved into a commodity, it has indeed become a part of the new normal. While the flexibility and the independence lures many, succeeding in that area goes beyond having access to a laptop and high speed internet connection. Employers on the other hand have a whole new set of expectations with regards to the employees being hired, they tend to emphasize more on how the workers are able to perform in terms of being productive, communicating and working in a remote setting. If you are contemplating acquiring skills to enhance your career opportunities in a world where remote working sits on top, here is a walkthrough of the areas that you need to concentrate on.
1. Digital Communication Skills
Strong communication in a digital setting is unavoidable in such a case where there is a transition from physical meetings to emails, video calls and messages. Employees are working with tools like Slack, Zoom, and Microsoft Teams, this makes it crucial for them to express their ideas professionally and clearly on these platforms.
How to Improve: There are online resources available for this for instance business communication courses. Get to know about most used tools in remote work. Improve your active listening skills alongside rewriting skills to make your message clearer.
2. Self-Management and Accountability
The absence of set working hours in a remote setting gives the working individuals the flexibility to work whenever they desire which allows them to be in total control of their work.
How to Improve: Familiarize yourself with project management websites, for instance Asana or Trello, these will assist in further comprehension of project management.
In order to not lag behind, use time management tools such as Toggl or RescueTime. For your work routines, develop such habits that will withstand time by reading books on productivity like Atomic Habits by James Clear. Now Let’s move on to the 3rd tip.
3. Tech Savvy
Mention the name of a remote worker and 9 out of 10 times this individual will be well versed with technologies, however, their ability to adapt and problem solve using new software’s can easily make him or her a cut above the rest, Being tech savvy encompasses all the basics needed, from learning about collaboration software to mastering troubleshooting tools.
How to Improve: Go for CPD courses available for beginners on IT Problem Solving or the basics of coding. Look out for more advanced features in software’s like Google Workspace or Microsoft Office. Make sure you catch up with the latest tools and applications targeting remote productivity.
4. Collaboration
Assemble remark and comment as the collaboration figure even if working virtually. Freelancing or the freelance lifestyle, in general, has blossomed over the years, however, relationships and rapport become very valuable skills when working on the project and in a team.
How to Improve: Take part in remote team work activities on Github or other websites enabling distance cooperation. Consider emotional intelligence skill improvement training courses so as to improve understanding and management of team communication. Interact in virtual team-building activities in order to equip relationship on remote bases.
5. Flexibility
Flexibility, fostered through resilience, is a must required by the employees because the truth of the matter is that these remote work opportunities are fast paced and continually change suggesting a real time dynamism. Such workers are appreciated by the employers as they can withstand the test of arduous times.
How to Improve: For an enhancement of the growth mindset,books such as the one authored by Carol S. Dweck Mindset should be read. To build a capacity for resilience, it is fundamental for one to practice mindfulness and stress management techniques. Challenge yourself to different workflows and understand what works best for you.
- Specialized Hard Skills
A majority of jobs in the remote workspace requires soft skills, however, other hard skills are also required in select industries. These include:
- Digital Marketing: Using SEO, social media, email marketing.
- Data Analysis: Using Excel, Python or Tableau.
- Creative Skills: Graphic designing, video editing and content creation.
How to Improve: Find specific online courses on Coursera, Udemy, or in LinkedIn Learning. Create a portfolio of most projects you have worked on which display your knowledge or skills. Ensure you are always on top of happenings in your field.
- Cross-Cultural Competence
Remote work usually requires people to work with a team that is situated in different countries. Having an understanding of different cultural aspects, ways of communication and what is expected in a workplace can enhance the quality of work done by a team.
How to Improve: Use language apps or cross cultural training programs to enhance your knowledge on different cultures. Read on how to engage in an inclusive communication. Engage in online communities or forums which are international.
The Future of Work is Remote: Are You Prepared?
Preparing for remote work is not only the matter of getting new skills but also interfering with your career approach. A better communicator, tamer of new technologies – these skills will make you more competitive on the job market.
And the best part? It is quite easy to find the material to expand your knowledge. It’s time to invest in your online courses, books or mentors. The workplace is changing: to ensure that you don’t just survive but make the best of this new environment, you need to be ahead of the game.
