Hi Superstar,
Happy New Year! 🎉
It’s 2025, and our theme for InclusivelyRemote this year is Leap Year. This is the year of taking bold, audacious leaps—doing things that scare us, shifting our mindsets from small to big, setting goals that stretch us, trusting in our dreams, and embracing the power of possibility.
2024 was incredible for so many in our community. Many of us landed dream roles, doubled our income, found joy in personal relationships, and upskilled in ways we never thought possible. And if that wasn’t your story last year, don’t worry—time knows no bounds, and this year is your chance.
“As long as we have life and good health, we have boundless possibilities.”
So, if you're ready to take your career to the next level this year, here are some practical and powerful ways to level up:
1. Subscribe to InclusivelyRemote
This year, we’re bringing you even more resources and opportunities to help job seekers worldwide land remote roles. From revised materials like an eBook on cold mailing strategies, a resume template and guide, a salary negotiation script, and a remote jobs outreach script, to cover letter templates and an interview answer guide, we’ve got you covered.
Plus, we’re sharing daily emails with hidden remote opportunities sourced directly from our network of remote founders and recruiters. Whether you’re looking to switch careers, start fresh, or aim higher, this is your year to do it. Subscribe now and get ready to leap forward!
2. Utilize LinkedIn for Personal Branding
I get it—LinkedIn might feel a little cringe at first, but hear me out: it’s the best platform right now for connecting with founders, employers, and recruiters from around the globe. A strong LinkedIn profile with the right branding strategy can open doors you didn’t even know existed.
Need help getting started? Check out our post on using LinkedIn comfortably to land opportunities (Read here). It’s time to stop being shy about your story and start showcasing your value to the right people.
3. Stop Relying Solely on Job Applications
In 2025, it’s time to think two steps ahead. Here’s a pro tip: most candidates don’t do cold value pitching. Notice I didn’t say “cold job mailing.” I said value pitching because the game has changed.
Shift your mindset from "help me" to "here's how I can help you." Tailor your outreach to highlight how you can solve problems or create value for the company. It’s all about being proactive and demonstrating your worth upfront.
4. Give a Taste of Your Value
Founders and recruiters are busy, and they don’t always have time to sift through resumes. Want to grab their attention? Show them what you can do right away.
For example, someone once pitched herself as a copywriter by sending me a copywriting template. I didn’t even ask for her resume—I immediately scheduled a call because she had already demonstrated her skills. Think about what you can create—a short project, a mock proposal, or even a creative solution to one of their challenges. Stand out by showing, not just telling.
5. Upskill with Free or Low-Cost Resources
Feeling underqualified because of your degree (or lack of one)? Don’t let that hold you back. There are countless free or low-cost courses to help you build in-demand skills. Check out platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, and HubSpot Academy to start learning today.
When you subscribe to InclusivelyRemote, we’ll help you source free courses tailored to your goals. Upskilling doesn’t have to break the bank, and it can make all the difference in your career.
6. Sell Value, Not Help, in Interviews
When it’s time to interview, position yourself as someone who adds value rather than someone who’s solely dependent on the company to train you. Employers, especially at startups, appreciate candidates who can hit the ground running.
Show them you’re proactive, adaptable, and ready to solve problems. Be confident in your skills and clear about the impact you can make. Remember, you’re not just applying for a job—you’re presenting a solution.
7. Connect with Remote Founders and Recruiters
This year, make it a priority to connect with remote founders and recruiters. They’re often the first to share insights on job openings, remote work trends, and other valuable updates. Don’t underestimate the power of a well-timed connection—it could lead to your next big opportunity.
Lastly, before I wave goodbye, I want to thank you again for sticking with us this new year. 2025 is your Leap Year, and I can’t wait to celebrate your wins with you. Let’s make it the year of scary, exciting leaps that bring us closer to our dreams.
No matter where you are in your career journey, remember that small, consistent steps can lead to extraordinary outcomes. Be bold enough to take the leap, patient enough to trust the process, and brave enough to try again when things get tough.
As you navigate this Leap Year, know that you are capable of achieving the seemingly impossible. Surround yourself with resources, connect with the right people, and most importantly, trust in the value you bring to the table.
Here’s to a year of audacious moves, personal growth, and fulfilling dreams—one leap at a time. You’ve got this!
Here’s to achieving everything you’ve set your sights on—and then some—with audacity and belief.
Yours Truly,
Mary-Esther Anele (Your Career Cheerleader)