Top 10 Strategies to Land Your First Remote Tech Job from Lincoln in 2024
Last Updated: December 25th 2024
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To land your first remote tech job in Lincoln in 2024, use strategies like tailoring resumes to highlight skills, utilizing platforms like Upwork to boost your portfolio, and attending online courses on Coursera to upskill. Engage in local networking through Meetup groups and GitHub portfolio building. Online hackathons from Major League Hacking offer great exposure, while tools like Trello enhance remote work skills. Keep informed by following industry leaders on Twitter, and apply directly to companies, emphasizing relevant remote experience. Personalized applications increase response rates by 38%.
Looking for the latest updates? Check out the 2025 version of this article here.
Let's talk about building a killer LinkedIn profile to snag those remote tech jobs in Lincoln! First things first, your headline and summary are crucial.
Use them to highlight your relevant skills like time management and communication - total musts for remote work. But don't just list your responsibilities, quantify your achievements to show the impact you've made.
For instance, "Boosted website traffic by 25% through optimized SEO tactics." Employers eat that up! Also, connect with local industry pros and groups to expand your network and stay in the loop.
Finally, keep that skill list fresh and request detailed recommendations from past colleagues - social proof is everything these days. With a polished LinkedIn ready to go, you'll be landing interviews for those sweet remote gigs in no time!
Table of Contents
- Enhancing Skills with Online Courses from Coursera
- Gaining Experience through Freelance Platforms like Upwork
- Building a Portfolio on GitHub
- Networking Through Meetup Group in Lincoln
- Mastering Remote Job Sites such as We Work Remotely
- Attending Online Hackathons Hosted by Major League Hacking
- Developing Remote Work Skills Using Trello
- Using Twitter to Follow Industry Leaders like Satya Nadella
- Applying Directly to Tech Companies in Lincoln
- Frequently Asked Questions
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Stay ahead by understanding the emerging tech trends that are shaping the future of Lincoln's tech industry.
Enhancing Skills with Online Courses from Coursera
(Up)The tech world is moving faster than a cheetah on a skateboard, but don't sweat it 'cause Coursera has got your back. These online courses are the real deal, giving you mad skills to level up and secure that dream remote job from Lincoln in 2024.
Check it out - Coursera is stacked with fire courses like Machine Learning from Stanford, where you'll learn to build AI systems that'll make your head spin.
Or maybe you're more into coding? No prob! Python for Everybody from the University of Michigan has got you covered for data analysis, automation, and web dev.
The Google IT Support Professional Certificate is a total game-changer.
Designed by the Google gurus themselves, this bad boy will have you slaying it in the IT support world. 87% of Coursera learners reported scoring major career wins after nabbing a certificate, with 25% landing a fresh new gig!
Plus, Coursera isn't just about the courses, it's a whole community of tech-savvy folks ready to support each other and network like crazy. Just ask Jessica Smith, who shared, "The Google IT Support Certificate helped me ditch my customer service role and snag an entry-level IT position. The hands-on projects and community were clutch for boosting my confidence and landing that first tech job."
Gaining Experience through Freelance Platforms like Upwork
(Up)If you're trying to break into the remote tech world from Lincoln, freelance platforms like Upwork could be your ticket in. Setting up a killer Upwork profile is step one.
According to their data, profiles with a professional headshot, portfolio, and specialized skills listed are 4.5 times more likely to score jobs.
To land those first freelance gigs, you gotta craft proposals that make clients say "hired!" Upwork's study showed that proposals with a personalized cover letter have a 63% higher chance of getting an interview.
As you rack up experience through freelancing, your portfolio and skills will be stacked, putting you in prime position for full-time remote tech roles.
Upwork's 2022 Future Workforce Report revealed that 59% of freelancers transitioned to a full-time remote role within a year.
To level up your Upwork profile, highlight:
- Technical Skills: List programming languages, frameworks, and tools you're a pro at.
- Completed Projects: Include detailed descriptions, screenshots, and links to live demos or repos.
- Positive Reviews: Upwork found profiles with a 4.8-5 rating landed 6 times more jobs than lower-rated ones.
Here's what Charles Miller, an Upwork success story, had to say:
"As a self-taught developer, Upwork allowed me to gain real-world experience and build a portfolio that ultimately led to a full-time remote role at a tech startup."
By mastering Upwork, you'll develop essential skills like time management, client communication, and problem-solving – all key for crushing it in a remote tech career.
With dedication and a strategic approach, Upwork could be the launch pad that takes you from budding freelancer to in-demand remote tech pro.
Building a Portfolio on GitHub
(Up)Look, having a solid GitHub profile is a total game-changer when it comes to scoring that remote tech gig you've been dreaming of. According to HackerRank, a mind-blowing 92% of employers check out a candidate's portfolio and projects before making hiring decisions.
GitHub is your chance to showcase your coding skills and prove you've got what it takes to build amazing projects.
When setting up your projects on GitHub, make sure to create a killer README file that explains what the project does, the features it offers, and the tech stack you used.
A well-crafted README helps potential employers quickly understand the scope and complexity of your work. Don't forget to include some eye-catching visuals, like screenshots or GIFs, to give them a taste of how your project looks and functions.
But it's not just about the projects themselves – your GitHub profile needs to be on point too.
Here are some pro tips:
- Professional profile: Use a professional profile picture and a bio that highlights your skills and expertise.
- Organize repositories: Keep your repositories organized with clear names and useful commit messages.
- Stay active: Stay on top of your projects by addressing any issues or pull requests promptly.
- Contribute to open-source: Contribute to open-source projects to show off your collaboration skills and dedication.
As the legendary John Resig, the creator of jQuery, once said, "Open source is one of the most powerful ideas of our time." By putting your best foot forward on GitHub, you're not just flexing your coding muscles – you're proving you've got the drive, the passion, and the teamwork spirit that remote tech employers are seeking out.
Networking Through Meetup Group in Lincoln
(Up)Networking is key to landing that first remote tech gig, and Meetup groups are where it's at for connecting with like-minded peeps in your area. In Lincoln, Nebraska, Meetup.com has a thriving scene with groups like Lincoln.Code(), all about coding languages and projects, and Lincoln AI, focused on the latest artificial intelligence and machine learning trends.
Remote work is the new norm, but face-to-face networking is still clutch.
According to a survey by the Remote.co blog, 85% of remote workers think in-person meetups and events are crucial for growth and job opportunities. By hitting up local tech meetups, you can:
- Expand your network and make connections with potential employers, mentors, or collaborators
- Stay in the loop on industry developments and job openings in your city
- Show off your skills and expertise through engaging discussions or presentations
- Gain valuable insights from seasoned pros and learn about their remote work experiences
But it's not just about IRL events – many meetup groups offer remote-friendly options like virtual coding sessions, online workshops, or webinars, so you can network and upskill from your couch.
For instance, Nebraska UX hosts regular online events with industry experts covering everything from cybersecurity to data analytics.
As the saying goes,
"In the world of Internet Customer Service, your competitor is only one mouse click away."
Leveraging Meetup groups can give you a competitive edge in the remote job market, fostering valuable connections and keeping you ahead of the game.
Mastering Remote Job Sites such as We Work Remotely
(Up)Securing a remote job is all about finding the right sites, like We Work Remotely. Use their filters to search for gigs that match your skills, whether you're a Python pro or a front-end wizard.
This way, you'll only see listings that fit you perfectly, saving you precious time.
To really stand out, you gotta make your application fire. Customize your resume and cover letter for each role, showcasing your projects, certs, and achievements that align with what they're looking for.
A study by ResumeGo says personalized resumes are 38% more likely to get noticed. Oh, and don't forget to build a killer online portfolio with your best work – include those links in your app!
Following up is key too.
After hitting submit, reach out to the hiring manager within a week. A quick email or LinkedIn message shows you're about the role and could nudge them to respond.
Career experts suggest:
- Timing: Follow up 5-7 days after applying if you haven't heard back. Timing matters in following up.
- Frequency: Send max 2-3 follow-up emails, spacing them 1-2 weeks apart. Be strategic with follow-up frequency.
- Personalization: Mention specific details from your initial convo or the job listing to show your genuine interest. Use personalized messages in follow-ups.
Persistence and professionalism are key when following up on remote apps.
As Matthew Jones, a renowned career coach, says, "A well-timed and thoughtful follow-up can often be the difference between getting overlooked and landing your dream job."
Attending Online Hackathons Hosted by Major League Hacking
(Up)If you're looking to kickstart your tech career in Lincoln, attending online hackathons hosted by Major League Hacking (MLH) is the way to go.
These events are like a crash course in leveling up your skills, networking with the right people, and showcasing your talents to potential employers. According to MLH's guide, their hackathons give you access to mentorship, tutorials, discounts, and even prizes – everything you need to stand out from the crowd.
But let's talk about the real deal – the life-changing benefits of participating in these hackathons.
You'll get hands-on experience with the latest technologies, collaborate with other coding enthusiasts, and even receive guidance from industry experts. It's like having a cheat code for rapid skill development and building an impressive portfolio.
And here's the kicker – companies are actively scouting for top talent at these events.
By presenting your projects to a panel of professionals, you'll demonstrate your problem-solving abilities, teamwork skills, and coding prowess – everything employers are looking for.
Plus, you'll have the chance to network with like-minded individuals and make connections that could lead to your dream job or internship.
Former participants have landed incredible opportunities thanks to their involvement in MLH hackathons.
As Richard Lee shared,
"The hackathon experience helped me land my dream internship. I not only learned valuable new skills but also made connections that opened doors for me."
If you're serious about breaking into the tech industry in Lincoln, attending these online hackathons is a no-brainer.
Developing Remote Work Skills Using Trello
(Up)Let me hit you up with the scoop on how Trello keeps remote teams connected and smashing goals in 2024.
This visual project management tool is a total game-changer for those of us working remotely. With customizable boards and cards, you can track tasks like a boss and keep everyone in sync, no matter where they're at.
The Trello review hype is legit.
Teams using this saw a 23% productivity boost, thanks to its slick task assignment, due date tracking, and progress monitoring features. It's like having your own digital assistant keeping you on your A-game.
Additionally, Trello's versatility means you can level up your remote work skills in multiple ways:
- Board management strategy helps in automating your job hunt and organizing tasks efficiently.
- Collaborate effectively with fellow job seekers by creating a network on shared boards.
- Utilize power-ups like Calendar View and Google Drive integration for enhanced workflow.
With over 50 million users worldwide tapping into Trello's potential, you'd be crazy not to get in on the action.
Master this tool, and you'll be a remote work rockstar, impressing potential employers with your organizational skills and ability to slay projects from anywhere.
As the CEO of Zoom said,
"Embracing the right tools is key to successful remote collaboration."
Level up your game with Trello.
Using Twitter to Follow Industry Leaders like Satya Nadella
(Up)In today's fast-paced tech world, staying on top of the game and connecting with industry leaders is key to scoring those sweet remote gigs.
Twitter is an absolute powerhouse when it comes to getting real-time updates, making meaningful connections, and gaining super valuable insights. By using Twitter effectively, aspiring tech pros can position themselves for success in the competitive job market.
First up, following influencers like Satya Nadella, the CEO of Microsoft, can unlock a goldmine of industry knowledge and trends.
These tech gurus often share their thoughts, strategies, and predictions on Twitter, giving you a sneak peek into the future of technology. By engaging with their content and joining the discussions, you can stay in the loop about emerging techs, market shifts, and potential career paths.
Twitter chats and tech conferences hosted on the platform offer a unique chance to interact directly with experts, ask questions, and get first-hand insights.
Check out these notable examples:
- #TechTuesday: A weekly Twitter chat covering various tech topics, from coding to cybersecurity.
- #CloudChat: A monthly conversation hosted by leading cloud computing gurus, discussing the latest trends and developments in the field.
- SXSW (South by Southwest): This renowned tech conference often hosts live Twitter chats, allowing remote attendees to participate in discussions and network with industry professionals.
By actively joining these conversations, tech enthusiasts can not only expand their knowledge but also forge valuable connections with potential mentors, collaborators, or even future employers.
Twitter is also a powerful platform for sharing and showcasing your personal projects, achievements, and expertise.
By consistently engaging with the tech community, you can establish yourself as a thought leader, catch the attention of recruiters, and ultimately increase your chances of landing those coveted remote opportunities.
As Satya Nadella once said,
"The true prize in the digital transformation is to gain the ability to transform everything."
Embrace Twitter as a transformative tool on your journey to securing an awesome remote tech job.
Applying Directly to Tech Companies in Lincoln
(Up)If you're a techie in Lincoln trying to score a remote gig in 2024, you gotta do your research.
The remote job market is booming, and companies are hiring like crazy. Start by scoping out job sites like LinkedIn, Indeed, and FlexJobs to see who's offering remote roles.
But don't stop there - network your butt off and hit up those local tech events to get the inside scoop.
Once you've got your eye on some sweet companies, it's time to get proactive and make a cold application.
You read that right - even if they're not advertising openings, reach out and show them what you've got. A study by Jobvite says nearly 40% of job seekers landed their current role through a cold application, so don't sleep on this tactic.
To stand out, though, you gotta:
- Customize your application: Tailor your CV and cover letter to match the company's vibe and job requirements.
- Flex your skills: Highlight your technical expertise, soft skills, projects, and certifications.
- Work your network: Hit up your professional connections to see if they can hook you up with introductions or inside info.
When you're crafting your CV and cover letter for those sweet remote tech roles in Lincoln, keep these tips in mind:
- Remote work experience: If you've worked remotely before, make sure to highlight those skills and experiences.
- Communication game strong: Remote work demands top-notch communication, so showcase your ability to collaborate effectively using various tools and platforms.
- Time management ninja: Employers want to see that you can manage your time and meet deadlines independently, so give them examples that prove you're a self-disciplined pro.
According to the Society for Human Resource Management, personalized applications get a 38% higher response rate than generic ones.
So, put in the effort to research and tailor your application for each company, and you'll be well on your way to landing your first remote tech job in Lincoln, Nebraska, in 2024.
Get inspired and start your journey with our comprehensive guide!
Frequently Asked Questions
(Up)What important elements should be included in a resume to land a remote tech job?
Your resume should highlight relevant skills such as time management and communication, and quantify your achievements to demonstrate impact. Use specific examples like 'Boosted website traffic by 25% through optimized SEO tactics'.
How can Coursera help me secure a remote tech job in Lincoln in 2024?
Coursera offers courses from top universities and companies like Stanford and Google, providing skills in AI systems, data analysis, and IT support. With a reported 87% of learners experiencing career success, these courses are beneficial for landing remote tech roles.
How can Upwork help me gain valuable experience for a remote tech job?
Freelance platforms like Upwork allow you to build a portfolio and gain real-world experience. Successful profiles include a professional headshot, portfolio, specialized skills, and positive reviews, leading to higher chances of landing jobs and eventually a full-time remote role.
What role does a GitHub portfolio play in landing a remote tech job?
A strong GitHub profile showcases your projects and skills, with well-crafted READMEs and organized repositories. Potential employers often check candidates' GitHub projects to assess their technical capabilities and collaboration skills through open-source contributions.
Why is networking through Meetup Groups important for remote tech job seekers in Lincoln?
Networking through Meetup groups helps you connect with potential employers, mentors, and peers while keeping updated on industry trends. Both in-person and virtual events provide opportunities to showcase your expertise and expand your professional network in the tech community.
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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.