Does working remotely sound appealing to you? Jobs in the 21st century do not require an employee to be physically present at the designated company’s official environment.
With remote work, you can be a thousand miles away anywhere in the world.
Following the new reports, over 30% of workers in Canada are willing to adopt remote as the new normal of being overworked by their employers, this is a sentiment more widely shared among those aged 18 to 34 (42%) than those aged 35 to 54 (29%) and 55 and over (22%).
If you’re considering remote job opportunities, this guide can help. It explains more about what remote work is, its advantages, factors contributing to the rise of remote work in Canada, top industries hiring, how it works, and tips to find the right remote job for you.
What is remote work?
If you have heard the term “telecommuting” or “telework”, then Remote work shouldn’t be something new to you.
Remote means “distance”. Remote work simply allows employees or hired professionals to outside the official company’s work environment.
Remote work is the traditional work style, especially for those in the tech industry. But has been adopted by other industries following the pandemic in 2020. Remote work has become popular since the rise of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
What are the advantages of remote working?
- Employees often have a better work-life balance and they are happier because of it.
- The incentive for workplace technology
- Decreased or eliminated commutes
- Enhanced business continuity
- Reduced need for corporate office space
- Recruiting and hiring advantages
- Work-from-home jobs are proven to provide more employee satisfaction which improves your employee retention rates.
- Remote employees report a greater level of work flexibility and productivity.
Growth of remote work in Canada in recent years
Remote work has been there from the beginning but came to the limelight in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
Ever since the demands for remote work have been on the rise, many industries have employed smart talents working as remote workers. Many companies are going digital and adapting to the new normal.
In March 2021, around five million Canadian employees were working remotely. This accounts for over 30 percent of Canadian workers, which is significantly higher than in 2016 when only 4% of Canadians worked from home.
Remote work is here to stay. With each passing year, the statistics on remote work increasingly support the fact that remote work is beneficial both for employers and employees. Over 80% of employees recommend working remotely.
Factors contributing to the rise of remote work in Canada
- Remote work in Canada has become more popular since 2020, mainly due to the COVID-19 pandemic and health concerns.
- Technological advancements and increased access to high-speed internet have made remote work more feasible and efficient.
- Many companies now offer remote work options to attract and retain talented employees who prefer flexible work arrangements.
- Some people choose remote work to live in more affordable areas, reduce stress, and improve their work-life balance.
- Environmental concerns and a desire to reduce their carbon footprint have led some companies to promote remote work as an eco-friendly option.
- Remote work policies can also provide more support to employees’ mental health and well-being.
Top industries offering remote jobs in Canada
In a report published by Owllabs researchers, the following are the top sectors with the highest percentage of remote workers;
- Healthcare: 15%
- Technology: 10%
- Education: 8%
- Manufacturing: 7%
- Professional Services: 6%
- Retail: 6%
Companies offering the most remote job opportunities in Canada
Ecobee is an award-winning technology startup that develops and manufactures smart devices for commercial and residential spaces.
Hopper is an accredited, mobile-only travel agency using big data to analyze and predict airfare and accommodations.
Wealthsimple is a telecommunication company that focuses on providing smarter, internet and financial services anywhere around the world.
With how-to guides, investment services, and personalized portfolios
This company’s expertise lies in digital recording technology and aims to transform its clients’ digital content into actionable information.
Spotify is a media company that provides entertainment services to its users. Spotify provides its users with music, podcast, comedy, and streaming services.
The company’s mission is to unlock the potential of human creativity by enabling creative artists to live off their art and fans to enjoy and be inspired by it.
Tips On How To Find Remote Jobs
The following are ways to improve your chances of landing a remote job in your field of expertise.
Build your resume and cover letter
A professional cover letter is likely to be the first chance to get attention and highlighting all your career and academic experiences and accomplishments can increase your chances of getting noticed and ultimately landing a high-paying remote job.
Build your portfolio
Having a strong online presence to boost your portfolio, and will give you a headstart in the remote work job market. Show your previous work, and experiences, and build social media presence.
You can use LinkedIn, it’s one of the largest networking sites to showcase your skills and experiences.
You can also leverage other media platforms, like Medium, Facebook, and Instagram.
Start Networking
Networking is another effective way to boost your chances in the remote work job market.
Start connecting with other international professionals who are in the remote work business.
Building and maintaining international relationships can access job opportunities that are not publicly advertised.
Freelancing
Building up a freelance portfolio takes perseverance and hard work, and it may not be for everybody, but many remote freelancers are making seven-figure incomes monthly.
Why is working remotely better than working in an office?
Working remotely is better than working in an office because employees are often more productive when working at home.
Remote workers are as or more productive than on-site employees doing the same job.
Communication Tools used by Remote Workers
Remote organizations require solid communication capabilities and the ability to learn new technologies quickly.
You’ll want to mention your knowledge of digital collaboration tools like Zoom, Google Drive, and Microsoft Teams.