Hi Superstar,
No person is an island, the idea that “nobody is an island” has come to represent the interconnected nature of humans, that no one is truly self-sufficient, and that we all rely on others and impact others with our actions. This is therefore the importance of team building in remote work. In remote work, employees may find themselves feeling like isolated islands. It's here that the significance of team building in remote work truly shines. According to Donne writes, “No man is an island entire of itself; every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main….”
Teambuilding, despite its reputation for inducing eye rolls, is a cornerstone of fostering empathy and reducing professional isolation among virtual employees. It's a testament to the idea that, even in the virtual work environment, every single one of us is part of a support system for the company’s shared objectives.
Sneak Peak of the Latest Hand-screened Remote Opportunities on the Job Board
Five (5) Things to Look Out For When Applying For Remote Jobs 💡
📍Communication Expectations: Before diving into a remote role, clearly establish communication norms with potential employers. Recognize the significance of effective communication in remote work and discuss preferred channels (email, chat, video calls) as well as expected response times. For example, inquire if the team prefers daily check-ins via video calls or if asynchronous communication is more common.
📍Company Culture Emphasis: Delve into the remote work culture of the prospective company. Some organizations seamlessly incorporate remote employees into their culture, promoting inclusivity and community. Look for evidence that the company values and actively supports the well-being of its remote team. For instance, check if they organize virtual team-building events or have established online forums for remote employees to connect and share experiences.
📍Time Zone Considerations: Evaluate how the company manages diverse time zones. Working with a team scattered across different time zones can affect collaboration and meeting schedules. Ensure the company has strategies like flexible working hours or asynchronous communication to address this. Ask if there are specific expectations for availability during overlapping hours and how they accommodate time zone differences for team meetings.
📍Remote Onboarding and Training: Probe into the onboarding and training process tailored for remote employees. A well-structured program can significantly influence your integration into the company. Inquire about available resources, mentorship opportunities, and support systems during the initial remote days. For example, ask if there are virtual onboarding sessions, detailed documentation, or a designated onboarding buddy to guide you through the company's processes.
📍Tech Stack and Cybersecurity Measures: Understand the technology landscape and cybersecurity measures of the potential employer. Remote work heavily relies on digital tools, so ensure the company has robust cybersecurity policies. Additionally, inquire about the tech stack used for collaboration, project management, and communication. This step ensures alignment with your preferences and expertise. For instance, verify if they use tools like Slack, Trello, or other platforms that facilitate seamless remote collaboration and communication while maintaining data security.
Navigating Salary Discussions in Interviews 💻 💡
Discussing past salary details during a job application can be a tricky situation, causing discomfort for many. While some are open to sharing payslips, others find it invasive. If you ever find yourself in this predicament, consider these refined tips:
Polite Assertion of Privacy: If uncomfortable sharing payslips, politely express that such information is private, and you're not comfortable disclosing it. For instance, you can say, "I appreciate your understanding, but I consider my payslips to be private. I hope you understand my stance on this matter."
Shift to Salary Expectations: Redirect the conversation towards your salary expectations. You can diplomatically state, "While I prefer not to disclose my past salary details, I'm more than willing to discuss my salary expectations for this role based on my skills and industry standards."
Provide a Salary Range: Offer a salary range based on thorough research and your professional experience. This not only keeps the conversation constructive but also showcases your understanding of fair compensation. For example, "I'm open to discussing a salary range that aligns with industry standards and the responsibilities associated with this position."
Sample Response: Here's an example response that combines these strategies: "I appreciate your understanding, but in accordance with my previous employer's policies, I'm unable to share my payslips. However, I'm happy to discuss the salary range for my previous position, providing insight into my compensation without compromising confidentiality."
Remember, it's essential to strike a balance between maintaining your privacy and engaging in a constructive conversation about compensation.
Resume Templates Resources (Black Friday/ November Special)
Hi Superstars, our resume templates are still on a flash sale this week. So instead of the normal price, you can get the resume templates and customization guide with resume tips for less than $1. So, this is a great opportunity to grab your copy and one for your loved ones!
Each template comes in a zip folder (you may need to have an app that accesses zip folders for this) and is accompanied by a comprehensive customization guide to assist you in tailoring your resumes. Additionally, editable versions of the templates are provided for your convenience. While you can make edits using various platforms, using Microsoft Word or Google Docs on a laptop or PC is recommended to ensure optimal formatting. Here are links to grab your copy:
Are you still hesitating about whether to get the templates? Check out our reviews here 👇🏼
Resources to Help in Your Remote Career Journey
Our Slack community: this is a community built to connect with job seekers and digital nomads around the world. We have monthly free training, resources, and a helpline. Also, you get to make friends with other members. Link
Our job board: The Inclusively Remote job board is tailored to ensure everyone around the world gets equal opportunities, especially Africans. We have jobs that are inclusive for Africans. Link
Our Resume Templates: Each template is accompanied by a comprehensive customization guide to assist you in tailoring your resumes. Additionally, editable versions of the templates are provided for your convenience. Link
Our Social Media Handles: For daily tips on navigating your remote work career or tips to corporate success, check out our social media handles here Link
Introduction to Remote Work: Access our free ebook on what remote work is and how you can get remote jobs, especially other platforms to check out. Link
The ABC of a Successful Remote Job Application: Access our free ebook on how to tailor your resume and apply to remote jobs. I have tailored a resume template you can use as well as cold mail messages in drafting your cover letter. Link
The Remote Salary Handbook: This is the first published guide on remote work. Having been a remote worker from Africa, I know the struggles of getting good pay, I have been paid less countless times. This ebook lays down tips as well as templates to ensure no one gets to be like me. It’s currently on sale and would go a long way in your career journey. Link
Yours Truly,
Mary-Esther Anele (Your Career Cheerleader)