Curious about the remote work experience? Our WFH community has shared their insights on job hunting, career growth, work-life balance, and more.
Real-life success stories from remote professionals can help you determine if remote work is the right fit for you.
Remote work looks different for everyone, and hearing diverse perspectives can help you envision your future in a remote position.
This post features anonymous opinions and insights from our WFH community on various topics:
Value Alignment: Finding a Remote Company that Shares Your Values
Our first remote professional is a Software Developer in the marketing department of a biotech company.
How long have you been working remotely?
I have around 20 years of experience in online business. I’ve had hybrid roles for about 15 years, but I transitioned to fully remote work shortly before the pandemic.
Why did you choose remote work?
I switched to remote work after becoming a single dad unexpectedly. My son, who has special needs, was only seven at the time, so finding a remote job was a priority for me.
How has remote work impacted your career?
Remote work has been great for my professional growth. I transitioned into a team lead role and was quickly promoted to lead a department.
Any advice you’d like to share?
I ended up in this position because I wanted to provide a good life for my son. However, everyone deserves a life they enjoy at a sustainable pace, even if they’re not a caregiver. Remote work offers a good way of life that we all deserve to enjoy.
Leveraging Manager Support for Career Advancement
Next, we have a remote professional in Sales Operations for the tech industry.
How long have you been working remotely?
How has remote work impacted your career?
What do you love most about working remotely?
I’m always productive! Without the time and energy spent on commuting, I can focus on taking care of personal matters and my household.
Supporting Your Mental Health & Emotional Wellness
Now, let’s hear from a Provider Data Analyst in the healthcare industry.
How long have you been working remotely?
Although I live in a different state from my company, I travel to their headquarters a few times a year for all-hands meetings.
Why does remote work work for you?
Working remotely has also made it easier for me to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications Design and a Master’s in Business Administration.
Any advice you’d like to share?
- Try to separate your workspace from your bedroom and leisure areas. It’s difficult to switch off from work mode if your office is near those spaces, and it’s also easy to get distracted while on the clock.
- If you receive work emails/messages on your phone and don’t need to be on call, silence notifications at night. Checking work-related notifications during your off-hours can drive you crazy.
- Working from home can be isolating, so make an effort to be more social and engage in regular outings. For example, join a bowling league or participate in activities that interest you.
Harnessing the Power of Upskilling (& a Really Good Chair)
Now, let’s hear from a remote eCommerce Marketing Manager.
How long have you been working remotely?
What advice would you give to remote job seekers?
Many people think that remote work is a field in itself and ask how to get a remote job. However, it doesn’t work that way. Employers aren’t lining up to hire someone just because they vaguely want to work remotely.
To succeed in remote work, you need valuable skills and experience, preferably in a specific field like marketing or software development.
Anything else you’d like remote workers to know?
Advancing Your Career as a Remote Support Specialist
Let’s hear from a Call Center Agent who has built a career in remote support.
How long have you been working remotely?
I’ve spent nearly 20 years in call centers. With only a high school diploma, it’s challenging to secure higher positions in on-site call centers.
What are the biggest perks of working in a remote call center?
No longer having to endure 2.5-hour commutes is a significant advantage. It’s great to have that time back and save money on transportation costs.
Finding a Healthy, Eco-Friendly Work-Life Balance
Our final remote work success story comes from an eCommerce Asset Specialist who has been working remotely for the past two years.
How has remote work impacted your career?
What do you love most about working remotely?
- Spend quality time with loved ones and feel more connected to them because I have more energy and focus after work. This closeness is priceless.
- Devote more time to hobbies and self-care activities that recharge and nourish my soul. With a flexible WFH schedule, I can work early or late as needed. I no longer wake up to an alarm and have eliminated the chaos and rush of mornings. Instead, I start my workday well-rested and in a positive mood.
- My depression and exhaustion have significantly decreased. I used to think that winning the lottery or retirement were the only ways to escape the weight of work and have more time for myself. But for the first time in years, I genuinely love my life, including going to work.
How does remote work affect your productivity?
How do you combat feelings of loneliness or isolation while working remotely?
While social interactions at work can be enjoyable and valuable, they drain me and leave me exhausted. I prefer to socialize on my own time rather than during work hours.
