Going Virtual: The Types of Remote Workers

Remote work continues to grow in popularity. That’s why we’re going to explore the types of remote workers and highlight the different lifestyles of each profile. This will help you determine whether they align with your current profession or require some unconventional thinking or a bit of skillbuilding.

Read the descriptions below and see which resonate for you. Note: you may find that more than one category feels relevant to you, and that’s okay—I’d even argue that it’s a good thing, as it only demonstrates that a variety of remote opportunities could be a great professional fit.

Below are some examples of various types of remote workers:

Roving Adventurer

I deliberately avoided calling this one ‘Digital Nomad’ because maybe you aren’t 25 anymore, and while you still love to travel, you’re not so active on Instagram/your hashtag game isn’t strong. Fear not! You definitely still fit the bill for a remote role that enables you to work from anywhere in the world with an Internet connection.

A few on-the-go options that translate easily from past professional experience include travel writer (of course), programmer, and transcriptionist or editor, to name just a few. Those who possess the self-discipline to accomplish necessary tasks rather than spending all day basking in the sun will be most successful in these roles.

Happy Homebody

Perhaps you’re the exact opposite of the above profile. You’re in your element when telecommuting, enjoying a fresh cup of coffee in your own kitchen, or reading a book on the porch. Or you may have other responsibilities that keep you tethered closer to your casa. I get it. For those working from home with a defined workspace, you’ll have the most control over your environment.

Not only does this mean you can set the temperature to your comfort level, you also can engage in tasks that require synchronous communication, a lot of concentration, or a high level of privacy. These might involve jobs in coding, information security or account management, or serving as an online tutor. 

Remote Work Newbie

You’ve heard about this virtual job thing, and you’d really like to land one. Though you lack experience as a distributed employee, there are ways to get up to speed on remote work before seeking a new gig. Check out online resources like webinars and blog posts by those who have already gone remote.

Take an accounting of the transferable skills you’ve acquired along your professional path that would serve you well in specific roles. Those with a communications background likely have (most of) the technical chops necessary to transition into a virtual role, for example—same goes for project managers or even accountants. If you were employed in a medical field, you might look for peripheral work in a remote job in healthcare, for example.

Seasoned Semi-Retiree

Not your first (or second, or third) work-related rodeo? If you’re on the brink of retirement but would like to stay in the game, there are plenty of remote roles available to you. This type of remote worker should consider the work that made up a significant part of their career; what were some of your favorite aspects of it?

Maybe you relished public speaking, crunching numbers, or mentoring others. If you don’t have to find a full-time job, this might be your chance to create a consulting gig that marries your talents to market needs. Or you can give part-time or contract remote positions a second look, if spending more time with loved ones (grandbabies or fur babies included!) appeals to you.

Boomerang Pro

Left the workforce for a while, but eager to return on your own terms? Remote work may be just the flexible option for you. While employment gaps on a resume can lead to professional setbacks, there are many virtual companies that specifically seek out parents, caregivers, or military spouses. Remember: in distributed roles, your output matters most—so an ability to demonstrate past productivity will be highly prized by employers.

You may be able to find a remote version of a prior position, or perhaps a hybrid one that enables you to work from home some of the time. Before you commit to a full-time job, though, do consider options via remote firms like CloudPeeps, an online hub for creatives, or Boldly, a subscription staffing company.

Now that you know the types of remote workers, if you find yourself a good fit in one of the above categories, you’ve already got the mindset needed to succeed in a remote work environment. And if you’re looking for remote jobs, we can help! Remote.co offers fully remote jobs in categories that range from accounting to IT.

BROWSE FULLY REMOTE JOBS NOW >>>

Photo Credit: bigstockphoto.com

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By Kristi DePaul | Categories: Work Remotely

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