top of page
Writer's pictureJames Cooper

Why some jobs are listed as "remote", but aren't?


It's an employer's market for remote jobs. These jobs are highly sought-after because they offer flexibility and autonomy that traditional office jobs often lack.

The thing is, I've noticed a troubling trend on LinkedIn recently: some jobs advertised as "remote" turn out to be hybrid or even fully on-site.

I've spoken with several people who've experienced this firsthand. They applied to what they believed were remote work positions, only to discover later in the hiring process that the role required some or all work to be done in an office. This bait-and-switch tactic can be frustrating and disheartening for those looking to work from home.

Why are onsite jobs being listed as remote?

Some recruiters may intentionally mislabel jobs to attract a larger pool of applicants. This "bait-and-switch" tactic preys on job seekers' need for flexibility and can waste their time and effort.

It's also possible that LinkedIn's algorithm is automatically classifying hybrid or on-site roles as "remote" based on certain keywords or phrases in the job description. This could be the platform wanting to drive engagement and attract more recruiters to its services, which is equally problematic.

How to protect yourself from unexpected surprises

First, if a job on LinkedIn catches your eye and is listed as remote, don't take it at face value. Visit the company's website and search for the same position. Look for the job ID (if provided in the LinkedIn post) to ensure you're comparing apples to apples.

Second, if you get the interview, during your initial conversations with recruiters, be clear about your remote work expectations. Clarify all the details up front so you don’t get any nasty surprises later on after you’ve invested time into the interview process.

Third - read between the lines. Read the job description for any subtle hints that the role might not be fully remote. Look for phrases like "occasional travel," "team collaboration days," or "local candidates preferred," which may be signs that the role is not fully remote.

Lastly, trust your gut. If something feels off about the job or the company's communication regarding remote work, don't hesitate to move on. There are plenty of legitimate remote opportunities available.

How to get a remote job

Thousands of job seekers ask about how to get a remote job on platforms like Reddit and Quora.

Understanding what a remote jobs entail and how to tailor your resume for remote jobs can really boost your chances of landing one.

Tips for getting a remote job:

  • Research and verify. Always research the company and verify job listings on their official site. This helps avoid misleading job descriptions and ensures the role is truly remote.

  • Tailor your resume and cover letter. Write a resume for remote jobs that highlights your remote work experience and skills. A cover letter for remote jobs should emphasize your ability to work independently, communicate with geographically distributed team members, and manage your time well.

  • Use specific keywords. When searching for WFH jobs, use specific keywords like "work from home," "remote work," and "how to get a remote job." This can help you find more relevant job listings.

  • Join online communities. Platforms like Reddit have communities where you can learn how to get a remote job, get your resume reviewed, find tips, and network with others in similar fields.

Navigating the job market for remote work can be tricky, especially with misleading job listings.

By being a little more diligent, reading between the lines, and preparing a strong resume and cover letter for remote jobs, you can increase your chances of finding a legitimate remote position that suits your needs.

Bonus if you've read this far - 5 job boards for remote jobs

Thanks for reading this far. If you're looking for remote work, check out the sites below:

 

Want to take the hassle out of writing a phenomenal resume?

That's where we can help – we have over 20 years of combined experience in recruiting and career coaching. James (cofounder of Final Draft Resumes), has helped hundreds of people from almost every industry and every experience level (CEOs to new graduates and everything in between).

To learn more about your services and find out if we're a good fit for your needs, see the buttons below 👇

If you're more of a DIY person, I got your back too! Try Resumatic - an AI resume builder that'll guide you through the resume writing process step by step.

 

About the Author

James Cooper is a Professional Resume Writer, member of the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches (PARWCC) and has been in the recruiting, career coaching, and writing business for almost 14 years. He began his career recruiting for AECOM, a Canadian engineering firm, and he's gone on to work with and help professionals land roles at top Fortune 500 companies.

Have questions about resume writing? Reach out at jc@finaldraftresumes.com.  

 

Enjoyed this article? Subscribe to James weekly newsletter.


Comments


bottom of page