Insights for Executives

Looking for a Remote Creative Job? How to Choose the Right One

Cedric Jackson

July 08, 2021

There are numerous remote creative jobs available across various industries.

While this means that there are more opportunities available for those who want a work from anywhere position, it can also make it harder to decide which job is right for you. 

Here, you'll learn how to choose the right remote creative job. Some of these tips overlap with how you would choose a non-remote job and some are unique.

What Equipment They Supply

Most of the time, you will want to factor in what equipment your employer supplies.

Some remote creative jobs will provide your laptop, internet, printer, mouse, keyboard, and anything else you need for work.

Others will expect you to bring your own equipment. Some companies will send you equipment, while others will give you a stipend. 

If you already have a good laptop and a strong internet connection, you will be set up for most remote jobs.

Full-time, Salaried, Part-time, Contractor, or Freelance 

You will also want to take some time to think about the type of structure you want from your employment.

There are plenty of full-time, salaried remote creative jobs available, but this is not the standard. You will also find a lot of hourly, part-time, or contractor jobs. 

Like a non-remote job, if you want more stability and benefits, look for a full-time job. If you want more flexibility, go for a contract or freelancer role.

Working Hours

While the working hours are a factor in any job search, this consideration is slightly different when looking for a remote creative job.

That's because some people mistakenly assume that every single work-from-anywhere job will have flexible hours. That is not always the case. 

Some of the jobs will have rigid hours but let you work from anywhere.

Others will let you choose your hours as long as you put in a certain amount of time or complete certain tasks.

Yet others will require you to be connected for a few specific hours during the day but let you choose the rest of your hours. 

Your Preferred Remote Culture

Just like you should consider the company culture before accepting a job offer, you also have to look into the remote culture before accepting a remote job. 

For example, consider if you want to be one of a few employees working remotely or would rather be in a fully remote team.

Think about whether you want to have to ever go into the office.

Some jobs may be mostly remote but require you to attend monthly in-person meetings or a handful of conferences each year. 

You will also have to think about your preferences in terms of creating a community feeling when working remotely.

Some companies make it easier for remote employees to connect with video-based activities while others leave it up to employees. 

None of these choices is better than the other. They all come down to personal preference. 

Factors That Overlap With Any Other Job Search

The above are the unique considerations when looking for remote work.

You also have to consider the same things you would with any other job, whether in-person or remotely. 

Think About What You Want to Do and Don’t Want to Do

One of the first steps to finding the right remote job is to think about what you want to do at work and what you don’t.

For example, if you want to show off your creativity, you may want a job in graphic design but probably wouldn’t want to work in a call center. 

This should include thinking about the type of job you want, as well as the work environment and tools or methods used. 

Consider Your Qualifications

You will also want to stop and think about the skills, credentials, and other qualifications you have.

Consider whether you are likely to meet the requirements for the type of job you are targeting. If you are currently not a fit, start working on building skills and experience to make you suitable. 

At the same time, don’t skip applying to a given job because you don’t quite meet all of the requirements.

Many employers would be willing to hire someone who needs a bit of training as long as they show a willingness to learn. 

Consider Pay and Benefits

As with any other job, the salary and benefits will likely affect the remote creative jobs that you want to apply for.

You should have an idea of what you want to make and what benefits you need to have. If you want additional benefits, you should look for a full-time remote job, not a freelancer or contractor position.

To get an idea of what you can expect to be paid, look online at typical pay for your chosen job. 

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