132 - "Looking for WFH job..." (can you spot the mistakes?)

The Connection / 2023.07.04 / Issue #132

Hello Connectors 😎 

In July 2022, remote jobs made up 16% of job postings on LinkedIn... yet attracted 53% of the applications.

The net net? The competition is fierce.

In a world of ChatGPT and a fifth Indiana Jones movie, you need a consistent way to stand out.

Today, in 5 minutes or less, you'll learn:

• The most common remote work mistake that RUINS your chances (I still do this sometimes)

• Why employers don't want Excel experts (and what they want instead)

• My favorite tool to get hired while living abroad

Let’s jump in.

"Where Do I Begin To Find A WFH Job?"

Can you spot the mistakes the OP (original poster) is making with their approach?

I count at least three. Can you spot them?

3…

2..

1.

Okay, let's dig in:

Mistake 1: "I-I-I syndrome"

I learned this from my time working with NYT Bestselling author, Ramit Sethi.

Notice how many times OP uses the word "I". They're entirely focused on themselves.

What "I" want. Why "I" need a remote job. "My" situation.

There's no mention of any impact OP's created for others.

P.S. Have you watched Ramit's Netflix show, How To Get Rich? Highly recommend. It's not what you think.

Mistake 2: Waiting for permission

OP says they’re not familiar with Excel, but they’re not against learning it.

So...

Learn it.

The information is free.

If you've identified a major hole in your skill set, fill it. Don't wait for permission.

Mistake 3: Emphasizing skills > impact

Believe it or not, employers don't want Excel experts.

"Wait, Chris, you just said..."

I know, I know. Hear me out.

Employers don't want Excel experts...

They want 3 things:

• To make more money

• To save money

• To save time

You don't need Excel. You need to drive results for somebody: an influencer, a non-profit, a business...

Then you need to tell others about it. (Or even better, let them tell people for you.)

Focus on impact. Less on skills.

Do that until people are banging on your door to work with you...

...and they'll literally let you work from wherever you want.

(This is referred to as "milkshake marketing" or Job To Be Done. This video is a great overview. Get this right and you'll start landing more remote job opportunities.)

Now, this isn't about bashing the OP. We all do this. I still catch myself making these mistakes on occasion.

(Next week, we'll dig into steps to fix this.)

“Your Business Here” (For 1,550+ Ambitious Remote Workers)

I'm looking to spotlight ambitious remote workers and digital nomads in The Connection. Share your story and your business with 1,550+ Connectors.

Interested? Complete this short form (2 minutes).

Remote Work Tools & Tech

The tools & tech that enable work from anywhere, living abroad, while accelerating your career.

Today's Remote work tool is Deel.

I was living in Ireland when a US company approached me with a job offer. The opportunity was awesome, but I was skeptical if they could hire me.

Then they introduced me to Deel and their Employer of Record services. And it was all smooth sailing from there.

Deel handled all contracts and payments. I focused on doing my best work and never had to worry about filing an invoice or missing a paycheck.

It was like having my own personal HR department. Highly recommend.

Conclusion

That’s a wrap.

Next Tuesday, we'll show you how to fix these common mistakes so you become as undeniable in the remote job market as a Fast & Furious movie at the box office.*

We'll also cover my favorite async tip that'll save your team hundreds of hours.

See you next week 👋

^{*I never miss a F&F movie.}

When you’re ready, here are 3 more ways I can help you with remote work: