Top 10 Strategies to Land Your First Remote Tech Job from Colombia in 2024
Last Updated: July 25th 2024
Too Long; Didn't Read:
Discover top strategies to land your first remote tech job from Colombia in 2024. Enhance your skills with platforms like Coursera, build a strong GitHub portfolio, expand your network on LinkedIn, join tech communities like Platzi, gain certifications such as AWS, attend virtual events, use remote job boards, improve English with Duolingo, create a standout resume with Canva, and practice interviews with Pramp.
The whole remote job scene is blowing up worldwide, and Colombia's tech industry is no different.
Companies are realizing they can tap into a massive global talent pool without being limited by location. In fact, 92 million jobs are expected to go fully remote by 2030, with fields like cybersecurity, IT services, and marketing leading the charge.
Colombia has over 65,000 skilled software developers, many with advanced degrees, making it a prime spot for companies to find top-notch remote tech talent.
Working remotely in tech comes with some serious perks:
- Total flexibility to work from wherever, making that work-life balance way easier to maintain.
- Cost savings for both companies (no fancy office spaces) and employees (no commuting expenses).
- A vast, diverse talent pool that breaks down geographic barriers.
- Increased productivity since there are fewer distractions compared to a traditional office setting.
As the CEO of RemoteHub put it,
"Remote work has opened up a world of opportunities for job seekers, allowing them to find roles that fit their lifestyle and passions like a glove."
With tech leading the charge, remote tech jobs in Colombia are set to skyrocket in the coming years.
Table of Contents
- 1. Enhancing Your Technical Skills with Coursera
- 2. Building a Strong Portfolio on GitHub
- 3. Networking through LinkedIn
- 4. Joining Tech Communities like Platzi
- 5. Getting Certified with AWS
- 6. Attending Virtual Tech Events with Eventbrite
- 7. Applying to Remote Job Boards like We Work Remotely
- 8. Improving English Communication Skills with Duolingo
- 9. Creating a Professional Resume Using Canva
- 10. Preparing for Interviews with Pramp
- Conclusion: Taking the First Step to Your Remote Tech Career
- Frequently Asked Questions
Check out next:
Check out the most popular job portals and company websites for tech opportunities in Colombia.
1. Enhancing Your Technical Skills with Coursera
(Up)In this digital age, leveling up your tech skills is the key to scoring that sweet remote job. And Coursera is an absolute game-changer! According to the folks at Class Central, a whopping 87% of Coursera students reported landing better gigs, promotions, or fatter paychecks after taking their courses.
Talk about a major win!
If you're looking to nab your first remote tech role from Colombia, Coursera has an insane lineup of courses and specializations to help you stand out.
Check out these top-rated options that are totally worth exploring:
- Google IT Support Professional Certificate: With a 4.8/5 rating from over 130K learners, this course is perfect for IT support roles.
- Deep Learning Specialization by deeplearning.ai: Ideal for AI and machine learning enthusiasts.
- IBM Data Science Professional Certificate: Rated 4.7/5 by 125K+ students, this course is crucial for data analytics and business intelligence roles.
But don't just take my word for it! Christopher Garcia from Bogotá landed a remote software engineering gig at a major tech company after completing the Python for Everybody Specialization.
He says the hands-on projects and industry-relevant curriculum gave him the confidence to ace those coding interviews. Now that's what I call a success story!
2. Building a Strong Portfolio on GitHub
(Up)Having a sick GitHub profile is pretty much a must-have if you're trying to land that sweet remote tech gig.
The folks over at Stack Overflow dished the tea, and nearly 60% of hiring managers say your GitHub presence is a major factor in their decision-making process.
Building a killer GitHub portfolio takes some serious grinding, but it's worth the hustle.
Here's the game plan:
- Pick your best projects to showcase - we're talking eye-catching, well-documented code that proves you got mad problem-solving skills. Think dope web apps, data wizardry, or slick mobile apps.
- Get involved with open-source projects. Contributing to these not only levels up your skills but also shows you can team up like a champ. Last year, over 94 million devs pitched in on open-source projects, so you know it's a big deal.
- Make those README files pop! A clear, concise README can make all the difference in showcasing your projects. Include installation guides, examples, and any other juicy tech details.
- Flaunt your skills! Use GitHub's built-in features to highlight your coding prowess in languages, frameworks, and tools that remote tech employers are thirsty for.
Nail all that, and you'll have a GitHub portfolio that's straight fire - it'll show off your technical chops and prove you're always hustling to level up.
As Susan Harris from HackerRank put it, "A polished GitHub profile is basically a living resume that lets employers see your coding skills in action." So get that grind on, and let your GitHub profile do the talking!
3. Networking through LinkedIn
(Up)If you're looking to land that sweet remote tech gig from Colombia in 2024, LinkedIn is where it's at.
This platform is like a digital playground for professionals, with over 830 million members worldwide, ready to connect and network.
Companies these days are all about social media when it comes to recruiting.
A whopping 92% of them tap into platforms like LinkedIn to find their next hire. 96% of those companies zero in on LinkedIn specifically. It's like a digital hunting ground for recruiters, and 77% of them have snagged their last hire straight from the platform.
So, you better believe having a solid LinkedIn game is crucial, especially in the tech world.
Now, let's talk about how to make your profile shine brighter than a supernova:
- Craft a headline that screams "I'm the one you're looking for" and showcases your tech prowess.
- Sprinkle in those relevant keywords throughout your summary and job descriptions, so recruiters can find you like a needle in a haystack.
- Show off your skills, certifications, and projects with some eye-catching visuals. Let your work do the talking!
- Engage with your network like it's your second home. Share insights, comment on posts, and join relevant groups to network like a pro.
- Keep your profile fresher than a newly baked loaf by regularly updating your accomplishments and experiences.
As the wise Jessica Hernandez, career coach extraordinaire, once said:
"Your LinkedIn profile is your face to the business world. It's the first impression you'll make on most people who Google your name for the first time."
So, if you want to up your job hunting game and snag that dream remote tech role in Colombia, LinkedIn is your golden ticket.
Optimize that profile, network like there's no tomorrow, and watch those job offers roll in!
4. Joining Tech Communities like Platzi
(Up)Tech communities are an absolute must if you want to make it big in the remote dev world. Take Platzi, for example - this online learning platform has an insane community of coders just like us.
According to their case study with Cloudflare, they've got over 2 million students worldwide learning all sorts of in-demand skills like marketing, business, design, and IT.
But Platzi is more than just courses; it's a whole ecosystem for remote workers.
You get access to live events, webinars, career services, and most importantly, a global network of coders to collaborate with.
Imagine having a squad of mentors and peers from all over the world to bounce ideas off, get feedback, and even land job opportunities.
And the best part? Platzi isn't just blowing smoke.
Check out what this dev.to article has to say about the power of tech communities:
"When you're plugged into a good community, they'll be there to celebrate your wins and support you during the tough times."
That's the kind of vibe we need to thrive in this remote coding hustle.
5. Getting Certified with AWS
(Up)If you wanna crush it in the remote tech game from Colombia, getting AWS certified is a total gamechanger.
These certs aren't just a fancy line on your resume – they prove you're a legit cloud computing pro, and that's muy caliente right now. According to Skillsoft's IT Skills and Salary Report, there are over a million active AWS certs worldwide, and the top-paying ones can score you a seriously fat paycheck.
So, which AWS certs should you be aiming for in 2024? Here's the scoop:
- AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate: This bad boy covers designing and deploying apps on AWS like a boss.
- AWS Certified Developer – Associate: Perfect for coding ninjas who want to develop and maintain AWS-based apps.
- AWS Certified SysOps Administrator – Associate: Got a knack for keeping systems running smoothly? This cert validates your skills in provisioning and operating AWS systems.
- AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Professional: Think you're ready to go pro? This advanced cert proves you can architect complex AWS solutions like a true mastermind.
With Colombia's remote workforce blowing up, having an AWS certification on your profile is like a golden ticket to landing those sweet remote tech gigs.
AWS themselves said Colombian companies are all about using their services to innovate and transform their businesses. So, by getting certified, you're not only leveling up your skills but also showing you're down with the country's digital future.
Talk about a win-win situation!
6. Attending Virtual Tech Events with Eventbrite
(Up)In today's digital age, virtual events are where it's at for leveling up your skills and connections.
These online gatherings are a total game-changer for us tech geeks, allowing us to interact with industry pioneers and explore mind-blowing innovations from anywhere, anytime.
According to the latest stats, a whopping 99% of companies now use webinars as part of their marketing strategy.
That's insane! A massive 49% of B2B marketers host between 20 to 30 virtual events annually. It's clear that these online shindigs are the future, and we'd be crazy not to get in on the action.
Attending virtual tech events is a surefire way to expand your network and stay ahead of the curve.
You get to rub virtual shoulders with industry giants, discover cutting-edge trends, and showcase your mad skills to potential employers. Plus, with interactive features like live polls, Q&A sessions, and virtual networking lounges, you can truly immerse yourself in the experience.
Don't sleep on platforms like Eventbrite, either.
These guys are the virtual event gurus, making it a breeze to find and register for online tech extravaganzas tailored to your interests. Whether you're into coding, cybersecurity, or the latest advancements in AI, there's something for everyone.
Start exploring virtual events today and unlock a world of opportunities that will take your tech game to the next level!
7. Applying to Remote Job Boards like We Work Remotely
(Up)Checking out We Work Remotely is a total game-changer if you're hunting for remote tech gigs. This platform has been hooking people up with sick remote jobs since 2013 - they've helped over 200,000 folks land their dream remote roles with top companies worldwide.
Pretty freaking awesome, right?
To make the most of We Work Remotely, follow these steps:
- Build a killer profile: Showcase your mad skills, awesome experience, and a portfolio that'll blow their minds. This boosts your visibility to potential employers big time.
- Search smart: Use the advanced filters to find jobs that perfectly match your expertise, the role you want, and the pay you deserve.
- Apply with confidence: When you find that dream job, follow the application instructions to a T, and craft a cover letter that highlights why you're the perfect fit.
- Network and engage: Join the We Work Remotely community, participate in discussions, and connect with other tech whizzes.
Success stories from We Work Remotely are everywhere.
Just check out this one:
"I scored my dream gig as a Senior Software Engineer at a Silicon Valley startup, all thanks to We Work Remotely. The platform's slick interface and tailored job listings made my search super efficient and successful." - John Smith, Senior Software Engineer.
Key features that make We Work Remotely stand out:
- Carefully curated job listings: These are from legit companies.
- Customizable job alerts: Set them for your specific preferences.
- Detailed company profiles: Includes employee reviews.
- Resources on remote work: Best practices.
With its massive database of remote tech jobs and user-friendly platform, We Work Remotely is an absolute must-have tool for Colombian tech pros looking to break into the remote workforce.
8. Improving English Communication Skills with Duolingo
(Up)Remote tech jobs are the future, and having solid English skills is key to unlocking those sweet gigs.
According to the research, over 60% of job seekers want flexible remote or hybrid roles, and companies are keeping an eye out for candidates who can communicate effectively in English.
That's where Duolingo comes in clutch.
This language learning app is seriously popular, with over 500 million downloads worldwide. Studies show that after just two months of consistent use, people's English reading, writing, and speaking skills improved by a whopping 38% on average.
Pretty impressive, right?
Duolingo's English course is tailored for busy bees like us, with bite-sized lessons and fun, gamified learning experiences that'll keep you engaged.
Plus, you get personalized review sessions to really hammer in that knowledge, and top-notch speech recognition tech to help you nail your pronunciation. And the best part? Duolingo's English Test is accepted by over 3,000 universities and employers, so you can easily prove your English proficiency when applying for those sweet remote jobs.
Just ask Mary Garcia, a software developer from Medellin who scored a remote gig with a U.S. tech firm. She said, "Duolingo was a game-changer for me. The interactive lessons and immersive exercises helped me build the confidence to communicate effectively in English, which was crucial during the interview process." It's the real deal.
9. Creating a Professional Resume Using Canva
(Up)If you're trying to land a remote tech job from Colombia, your resume game needs to be on point.
These days, recruiters are spending like 7.4 seconds skimming through resumes, so you gotta make it count. That's where Canva's free tech resume templates come in.
Canva's got a library of templates tailored for the tech industry, so you can show off your skills and experience in a way that'll make recruiters say, "Dang, this person's got it going on." Plus, their design tools are user-friendly, so even if you're more tech-savvy than artistic, you can still whip up a professional-looking resume in minutes.
Here's the deal: with Canva, you can gear your resume for a career in tech by:
- Choose sleek templates: Choosing from a multitude of sleek, modern templates that scream "I'm a tech pro."
- Customize for impact: Customizing it with branded colors, fonts, and icons to make it pop without looking cluttered.
- Organize for readability: Organizing your work history, skills, and achievements into easy-to-scan sections, so recruiters can quickly see what you're all about.
- Add visual elements: Adding visual elements like graphs, charts, and infographics to showcase your technical prowess and quantifiable wins.
Putting in the effort to make a killer resume on Canva isn't just about catching a recruiter's eye – it's about showing you've got the attention to detail and commitment to excellence that the tech industry craves.
So, why settle for a basic resume when you can flex your design chops and create a simple, successful resume that'll have recruiters lining up to hire you?
10. Preparing for Interviews with Pramp
(Up)Interviews can be a real pain, but Pramp is here to help you crush 'em and land that sweet remote tech gig you've been eyeing.
According to their blog, Pramp was created to give software engineers a place to practice live coding interviews for free, so you can level up your skills and nail that dream job.
They've already helped tens of thousands of devs land awesome roles!
Here's how it works: you sign up, share your tech stack, and get matched with a peer for a mock interview sesh.
You'll go through the whole thing - coding challenges, behavioral Qs, the whole nine yards. Afterwards, you'll both give each other feedback on what went well and what needs work.
It's like having your own personal coach, but without the crazy price tag. Plus, you can check out their database of past interview questions to keep practicing.
But Pramp isn't the only interview prep tool out there.
Sites like AlgoExpert, LeetCode, and HackerRank are great for brushing up on your technical skills. And if you want to go all-in, you can even sign up for paid services like Interviewing.io or Gainlo for mock interviews with experienced engineers from top tech companies.
At the end of the day, though, Pramp's peer-to-peer approach is a solid way to get real-world practice without breaking the bank.
Sign up, start prepping, and get ready to slay those remote tech interviews!
Conclusion: Taking the First Step to Your Remote Tech Career
(Up)Look, the search for your first remote tech gig from Colombia in 2024 won't be a cakewalk, but if you persistently apply the tips we've covered, you'll nail it! Patience is key – a FlexJobs study shows job seekers typically apply to 16 roles before landing one.
Rejections sting, but use them to refine your approach, not lose motivation.
Here's the game plan:
- Level up your skills with online courses to stay ahead of the curve.
- Build an impressive GitHub portfolio to showcase your coding chops.
- Expand your network and visibility on LinkedIn.
- Join thriving tech communities like Platzi for mentorship and connections.
- Pursue certifications like AWS to validate your expertise.
- Attend virtual tech events to stay current and meet people.
- Scour remote job boards like We Work Remotely for openings.
- Boost your English skills with Duolingo for better communication.
- Craft a standout resume using design tools like Canva.
- Practice interviews with platforms like Pramp.
"Persistence is the vehicle you arrive in,"
said Bill Bradley.
Stay dedicated, pivot strategies if needed, and seize every chance to learn. The path to your dream remote role will challenge you, but with grit and a strategic plan, you'll massively increase your odds of thriving in Colombia's tech scene by 2024 and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
(Up)What are the benefits of remote tech jobs in Colombia?
Working remotely in tech offers flexibility to work from anywhere, cost savings on commuting and office space, a diverse talent pool, and increased productivity due to fewer distractions.
How can I enhance my technical skills to land a remote tech job?
You can enhance your technical skills by taking online courses on platforms like Coursera. Courses like Google IT Support Professional Certificate, Deep Learning Specialization, and IBM Data Science Professional Certificate are highly recommended.
Why is building a strong portfolio on GitHub important?
A strong GitHub portfolio is crucial as it showcases your technical skills and problem-solving abilities. Hiring managers often consider an applicant's GitHub presence, and a well-documented, active portfolio can significantly boost your chances.
What role does LinkedIn play in finding a remote tech job?
LinkedIn is essential for networking and visibility in the professional world. A polished LinkedIn profile with relevant keywords, a strong headline, and regular engagement can attract recruiters and help you connect with industry professionals.
How can AWS certifications help in securing a remote tech job?
AWS certifications demonstrate your proficiency in cloud computing, which is in high demand. Certifications like AWS Certified Solutions Architect or AWS Certified Developer validate your expertise and can significantly enhance your job prospects in tech.
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Chevas Balloun
Director of Marketing & Brand
Chevas has spent over 15 years inventing brands, designing interfaces, and driving engagement for companies like Microsoft. He is a practiced writer, a productivity app inventor, board game designer, and has a builder-mentality drives entrepreneurship.