The Current Remote Job Landscape for Moms
Many moms seek flexible, legitimate work-from-home opportunities in today’s challenging job market. But with the largest white-collar recession underway, it’s harder than ever to stand out, let alone find jobs that truly work with the everyday juggle of everything else. Applying to jobs online only works about 1% of the time, so a more strategic approach is needed. Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting noticed, networking effectively, and opening doors to new remote work opportunities.
5 Proven Strategies to Land Remote Work for Moms
1. Strategy #1: Network Building
Building and maintaining a network is vital, especially in a remote work environment. It’s not just about quantity; it’s about quality and making meaningful connections. Right now, hiring managers prefer referrals because they come with built-in credibility. It saves them time and allows for evidence-based hiring. Highlighting why you’d be an asset to the team makes it easier for your contact to vouch for you.
2. Strategy #2: Strategically Job Search
In a competitive job market, simply applying isn’t enough. Studies show that job applications alone have a slim success rate. What works instead? As mentioned in #1 - Referrals! Your network can be the key to landing a job, so reaching out and making personal connections is crucial.
- Do Your Homework: Research the company and familiarize yourself with its mission, values, and products. Hiring managers are far more likely to notice candidates who show genuine interest.
- Personalize Your Approach: Start your outreach by discussing your connection—whether it’s a mutual friend, an industry event, or something specific that ties you to the company.
- Show Enthusiasm for the Company: Once you’ve established the connection, share what excites you about the company. Good hires attract other good hires, so make a compelling case for why you’re a strong fit and how you could contribute.
3. Strategy #3: Video Market Yourself
With so many applicants, it’s hard to stand out through a resume alone. Using tools like the McCoy App can be a game-changer. This platform lets you share video introductions, showcasing your personality, professionalism, and enthusiasm.
- Record a Short Intro Video: Use the app to share why you’re excited about the role, what makes you a strong fit, and why this company aligns with your goals.
- Instant Notifications: The McCoy app notifies you when someone views your video, giving you insight into the hiring process and showing interest in real time.
- Get a Head Start: Video lets you skip the initial “getting-to-know-you” phase and show off your strengths immediately, which is increasingly appealing to hiring managers.
4. Strategy #4: Join Project-Based Job Communities
If finding a full-time role has been challenging, project-based work is a fantastic option to gain experience and get your foot in the door.
- Explore Catalant: This high-level platform matches professionals with short-term projects, letting you build skills and expand your resume without committing to a full-time role.
- Look into #WorkSchoolHours and 5-Hour Club: Companies like the UK-based 5-Hour Jobs cater specifically to moms, offering roles that fit around school schedules. The #WorkSchoolHours movement, led by Ellen Joan Ford, is dedicated to helping parents find flexible roles that respect family time.
5. Strategy #5: Consider Entrepreneurship
Although we’ve been taught that being an employee is the safer financial path, a 2022 JP Morgan report says that the median self-employed household has a net worth more than four times greater than the median worker. Counterintuitively, launching a business can yield greater financial stability than working for an employer. But many are still scared to start their own thing or capitalize on a great idea. One fact that inspires me is that females own 44% of today’s businesses and that women-led businesses employ 9.4M workers and generate $1.9T in revenues annually. You can also get a piece of this pie with your next great idea! Don’t be scared to monetize your next great idea and carve a profitable career path on a road that might seem scary. Whether it’s launching a small online store, offering freelance services, or turning a hobby into income, start by setting aside a little time each day to plan and research your idea. Tap into resources like free online courses, local small business groups, or even micro-grants available to women entrepreneurs to help you get started with confidence. Then, you truly have the flexibility to work whenever or however you want.
Finding Legit Work-From-Home Jobs for Moms
Finding legitimate, flexible work-from-home opportunities may require more creativity and networking in today’s market, but these strategies can give you an edge. Start with your network, make it personal, consider video to stand out, and look for project-based work as a way to build experience. We love following career coaches like JT O’Donnell at Work It Daily (on Instagram @j.t.odonnell, TikTok, and LinkedIn), where we found many of these tips for inspiration. With the right approach, you can navigate the competitive landscape and find a role that fits your life and goals. Our latest episodes on harnessing your superpowers, lighting a new path, and persevering should help spark new ideas, too.