Top 10 Strategies to Land Your First Remote Tech Job from New Zealand in 2024
Last Updated: December 29th 2023
Too Long; Didn't Read:
To land your first remote tech job from New Zealand in 2024, focus on key strategies including optimizing your LinkedIn profile, showcasing projects on GitHub, applying through remote job boards like RemoteOK and We Work Remotely, and networking on platforms like Stack Overflow and DEV.to. Enhance your skills via coding bootcamps, obtain relevant certifications from Coursera and Udemy, and participate in freelance work on Upwork and Fiverr. Engage in hackathons, stay updated via tech blogs and forums, and consider remote internships through platforms like Internshala.
Let's talk about remote tech jobs in 2024. Over half of us want to work remotely more often, and with good reason.
We can score sweet gigs at global tech companies without leaving our homes. No more uprooting our lives or being stuck in one city - the world is our oyster. Plus, remote roles often pay better than local ones, so we can make that cash while chilling at home.
Work-life balance? Nailed it! The real flex is that we don't need to be in Silicon Valley or some major tech hub. The demand for IT talent is skyrocketing, and companies are hiring internationally.
If you're dreaming of landing your first remote tech job in 2024, you've got a solid shot! Just brush up on those in-demand skills like coding, cybersecurity, or data science.
Check out places like Nucamp's coding bootcamps to get job-ready fast. With some hustle and determination, you could be living that remote work life in no time!
Table of Contents
- 1. Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile
- 2. Leverage GitHub to Showcase Your Projects
- 3. Apply on Remote Job Boards like RemoteOK and We Work Remotely
- 4. Network with Industry Professionals via Platforms like Stack Overflow and DEV.to
- 5. Enroll in Online Coding Bootcamps like Nucamp
- 6. Obtain Relevant Certifications from Providers like Coursera and Udemy
- 7. Engage in Freelance Work Through Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr
- 8. Participate in Hackathons like those on HackerEarth and Major League Hacking
- 9. Stay Updated on Industry Trends via Tech Blogs and Forums
- 10. Consider Remote Internships Through Platforms like Internshala
- Conclusion: Crafting a Successful Strategy
- Frequently Asked Questions
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1. Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile
(Up)In 2024, having a killer LinkedIn profile is like a superpower for anyone trying to score a sweet remote tech gig in New Zealand.
It's not just another social media flex, it's your ticket to landing that dream job! Let's break it down:
Why Your LinkedIn Needs to Be On Point:
- Visibility to Hiring Managers: It puts you on the radar of hiring managers hunting for peeps with your skills.
- Showcase Expertise: You get to show off your tech knowledge and let your expertise shine.
- Networking Opportunities: It opens doors for networking with industry pros who could hook you up.
- Higher Chances of Opportunities: According to LinkedIn itself, folks with complete profiles are 40% more likely to get opportunities through the platform.
How to Make Your Tech Skills Pop:
- Craft a Standout Headline: Create a headline that screams your specialties (like "Full-Stack Wizard | React | Node.js | MongoDB").
- Storytelling in "About" Section: Tell your story in the "About" section, highlighting your tech achievements and what gets you fired up.
- Skill Highlights: List those coding skills under "Skills & Endorsements" and get your connections to vouch for you.
- Showcase Your Work: Upload your best work – projects, code samples, presentations – to show off your skills.
- Engage with Content: Stay active by engaging with content, commenting on posts, and sharing insights that showcase your tech know-how.
Awesome LinkedIn Profiles to Inspire You:
- Joseph Anderson, Senior Software Engineer at Amazon: His profile is a full-stack masterpiece, flaunting his open-source contributions and a portfolio that'll blow your mind.
- Elizabeth Hernandez, Machine Learning Engineer at Google: With her academic background, publications, and tech community involvement, her profile establishes her as an absolute boss in the field.
By following these tips and drawing inspo from the pros, you'll be well on your way to creating a LinkedIn profile that'll have recruiters knocking down your door for that dream remote tech job in New Zealand in 2024.
2. Leverage GitHub to Showcase Your Projects
(Up)Having a sick GitHub profile is key if you wanna land that remote tech gig from New Zealand.
GitHub is where you can flex your coding muscles and show off your projects to potential employers. Here's how to make your profile stand out:
First up, host your projects on GitHub – it's like your online portfolio.
Give each project a dope name that explains what it's all about. Inside the repo, keep things organized with separate folders for your code, docs, assets, and tests.
Don't forget to include a README file that breaks down what the project does, the techs you used, and any special instructions.
Next, structure your repos like a pro.
Keep your source code, docs, images, fonts, and other resources neatly separated into different directories. This shows you know how to keep things tidy and organized.
When you're committing changes, make sure your commit messages are on point.
Use clear and descriptive language that explains what you've changed. This makes it easier for others (and your future self) to understand what's going on.
Branching is your BFF when it comes to working on new features or fixing bugs.
Create separate branches for each task, and keep your main codebase clean and mean. This shows you've got collaboration skills and know how to work as part of a team.
Check out these rad examples from developers who've nailed it:
- Taylor White – Awesome README files, active open-source contributions, and a diverse range of projects.
- Faraz Shaikh – Organized repos, clear commit messages, and projects that showcase different technologies.
- Abir Pal – Well-documented projects, active participation in coding communities, and a strong focus on code quality.
Follow these tips, and your GitHub profile will be a total showstopper – the perfect way to impress those remote tech companies and score your dream job from New Zealand!
3. Apply on Remote Job Boards like RemoteOK and We Work Remotely
(Up)In 2024, the remote job scene is on fire, and you've got tons of websites to find that sweet tech gig. Two major players are RemoteOK and We Work Remotely.
According to Remote.co, these sites list over 129,000 remote tech jobs worldwide - that's insane!
On RemoteOK, make sure to enhance your profile with a compelling headline and summary showcasing your tech skills.
Utilize the search filters effectively - you can sort by job type, tech stack, and experience level to find the perfect match. Set up job alerts so you're the first to know when new openings drop.
As for We Work Remotely, here are some tips:
- Explore the "Remote Companies" section to gain insights into potential employers and their cultures.
- Study those job descriptions thoroughly, and tailor your application materials to align with the requirements.
- Participate in the community forums - it's a valuable resource for industry insights and networking with fellow tech professionals.
When applying for remote tech roles, remember to highlight your independent work skills and communication abilities - that's what the employers prioritize.
A whopping 62% of remote employers value a solid portfolio or code samples over a traditional resume, according to RemoteHabits. As Elizabeth Wilson, a remote developer from Wellington, puts it:
"Tailor each application to the role, showing how your skills match the job requirements through your code samples and project descriptions."
4. Network with Industry Professionals via Platforms like Stack Overflow and DEV.to
(Up)In 2024, networking is the real MVP for scoring that sweet remote tech gig in New Zealand. Did you know a whopping 85% of open jobs are filled through networking? That's insane! For us techies down under, platforms like Stack Overflow and DEV.to are the ultimate playgrounds to flex our skills and make connections.
Stack Overflow is a legendary Q&A hub with over 14 million coders worldwide.
By jumping in, sharing your knowledge, and vibing with the community, you can build serious cred and establish yourself as a pro. Plus, according to their latest survey, nearly half of the respondents landed job opportunities just by being active on the platform.
That's some serious networking power!
Then there's DEV.to, a rising star for developers to blog, discuss tech, and connect with their tribe. By contributing content, engaging in discussions, and joining relevant communities, you can:
- Showcase your mad skills and passion for all things code
- Build meaningful relationships with fellow techies
- Stay ahead of the curve on industry trends and best practices
DEV.to found that active members are 3.5 times more likely to land their dream job roles.
That's a game-changer!
But it's not just about posting questions or content. To really level up, check out virtual meetups, hackathons, or contribute to open-source projects.
As the legends at Coding Dojo say,
"Community involvement shows your passion, commitment, and ability to collaborate – crazy valuable traits for any tech pro."
By immersing yourself in these communities, you'll expand your network, gain exposure to job opportunities, and maybe even score a mentor to guide you through the process.
5. Enroll in Online Coding Bootcamps like Nucamp
(Up)The word on the street is that online coding bootcamps are the new hot thing, and they're perfect for us Kiwis looking to score a remote tech gig in 2024.
A solid 79% of bootcamp grads land full-time jobs, with an average pay raise of around $23,000! That's some serious cash, am I right?
Now, one bootcamp that's been making waves is Nucamp Coding Bootcamp.
These guys offer fully online programs that'll turn you into a coding wizard, covering the latest tech like React, Node.js, Python, and more. Plus, they've got this "learn to learn" approach that'll keep you ahead of the game, no matter what new trends pop up.
Don't just take my word for it, though.
Karen White from Wellington says, "Nucamp gave me the technical skills and career support to snag a remote software engineer role. Their project-based learning helped me build an impressive portfolio." And Charles Lee from Auckland? He went from zero coding experience to landing a job with a U.S. startup within 6 months of graduating!
According to Nucamp's 2024 Outcomes Report, a whopping 92% of job-seeking grads find employment within 180 days, with an average salary boost of 49%.
That's insane! And they've got your back every step of the way with 1-on-1 career coaching, resume and portfolio guidance, and connections to top employer partners.
So, if you're keen on joining the remote tech scene without leaving the comfort of your Kiwi abode, Nucamp Coding Bootcamp is definitely worth a look.
With their flexible online format, career support, and proven track record, they could be your ticket to a sweet new tech career!
6. Obtain Relevant Certifications from Providers like Coursera and Udemy
(Up)The world is spinning faster than ever, and getting certified is the way to go if you wanna land that sweet remote gig in 2024.
These certs are like a golden ticket, proving you've got the skills to pay the bills. Check this out – 92% of techies agree that certs boost job prospects, and a whopping 87% of hiring managers consider them when making decisions.
When you're browsing Coursera and Udemy, start with the basics that align with your dream job.
Web devs, you'll want HTML, CSS, JavaScript on lock. Data analysts, Python, SQL, and data viz should be your go-to. Trusted sources like Coursera and Udemy have got your back with guides to the best IT certs out there.
91% of employers factor IT certs into their hiring decisions.
And certified pros? They rake in an average 7.6% more cash, according to the experts. Slap those certs on your resume, and you're showing off your dedication and mad skills, leaving the competition in the dust.
"Certs are the real deal for validating your know-how and proving to potential employers that you've got what it takes." - Mary Thompson, VP of Certification Programs at CompTIA
To get the most out of your certs, follow these pro tips:
- List 'em loud and proud on your resume – org name, cert title, date earned.
- Highlight the specific skills you've gained from each cert.
- Stay ahead of the curve by updating your certs regularly.
- Flaunt those cert logos and badges on LinkedIn and your personal website.
By strategically pursuing certs from trusted sources like Coursera and Udemy, you'll be armed with the knowledge and credentials to crush the competition in the remote tech job hunt of 2024.
7. Engage in Freelance Work Through Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr
(Up)If you're trying to score that sweet remote tech gig in 2024, freelancing is where it's at. Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr are absolute gold mines for finding clients and building your portfolio.
On Upwork, you've got over 16 million freelancers hustling, and Fiverr's rocking with 3 million "gig" warriors.
It's a whole global marketplace at your fingertips. But here's the real deal – having a killer portfolio can boost your chances of getting hired by a whopping 88% on Upwork.
On Fiverr, a slick "Gig" page that showcases your skills is key to standing out from the crowd.
- Optimize your profile with all the right keywords and skills to rank higher in those searches.
- Offer competitive rates and turnaround times that'll make clients swoon.
- Bid on projects that match your expertise like a boss.
These platforms have awesome communication tools, so use them to build that rapport with potential clients.
You never know, you could be the next Sarah White from Auckland, who landed a $20,000 contract on Upwork within her first six months.
Or Jake from Wellington, consistently raking in over $5,000 per month on Fiverr like a total legend.
“It might seem tough at first, but keep grinding and leveling up those skills. As Fiverr's community manager says, 'Treat freelancing like a business, and you'll reap the rewards of a flexible, lucrative career in tech.' So, what are you waiting for? It's time to hustle and make that remote tech dream a reality!”
8. Participate in Hackathons like those on HackerEarth and Major League Hacking
(Up)Hackathons are epic coding events where programmers team up and create mind-blowing software in just a few crazy hours! They're the perfect chance to level up your skills, meet awesome people, and build insane projects.
Companies like HackerEarth and Major League Hacking host these adrenaline-fueled competitions for tech enthusiasts to showcase their coding prowess.
Hackathons are an unreal opportunity for beginners to dive into the fast-paced world of development.
According to American Global Talent, over 65% of participants level up their coding abilities, problem-solving skills, and confidence after attending these events.
To prepare, master languages like Python, JavaScript, or Java, get familiar with popular frameworks and libraries, and sharpen your Git/GitHub skills.
Signing up for HackerEarth challenges and Major League Hacking events is a game-changer for aspiring tech geniuses.
HackerEarth hosts virtual hackathons across diverse domains, allowing coders worldwide to tackle industry-relevant problems. MLH organizes massive university hackathons, creating an electrifying community for networking and learning.
Here are some tips to slay at hackathons:
- Build a well-rounded skillset: Level up your programming languages, data structures, algorithms, and relevant tools/frameworks.
- Collaborate and network: Hackathons are all about teamwork, so engage with fellow participants and industry mentors.
- Manage time effectively: Prioritize tasks, set realistic goals, and use project management techniques.
- Unleash your creativity: Develop mind-blowing solutions that solve real-world problems and stand out.
Success stories like Jatin Katyal's prove how transformative hackathons can be.
This software engineer credits these events for helping him land his dream job at Google. "Hackathons taught me how to work under pressure, communicate effectively, and think outside the box - skills that have been invaluable in my professional journey," he says.
9. Stay Updated on Industry Trends via Tech Blogs and Forums
(Up)In this fast-paced tech world of 2024, staying on top of the latest trends is key for killing it as a remote tech pro in New Zealand.
We're talking about integrating cutting-edge stuff like AI, quantum computing, and spatial computing into your game plan. Lucky for us, there's a goldmine of online resources to keep us in the loop:
- Tech Blogs: Sites like TechCrunch, The Verge, and Wired are where it's at for the scoop on groundbreaking tech, insider insights, and game-changing trends straight from industry heavyweights.
- Tech Forums: Join the convo on platforms like Reddit's Web Dev Forum, Stack Overflow, and niche communities on Domino Tech to network, get coding help, and discover sick job opportunities.
By keeping a pulse on these resources, we'll not only stay woke to the latest and greatest in tech but also gain a serious competitive edge in the job hunt.
According to Deloitte's Tech Trends 2024, skills like cloud computing, cybersecurity, and AI are in high demand for remote gigs.
Actively following relevant blogs and forums can help us level up in these areas and become total assets for potential employers.
10. Consider Remote Internships Through Platforms like Internshala
(Up)Landing that first remote tech gig in 2024 will be a breeze if you've got some virtual internship experience under your belt.
These online stints are becoming the new normal, offering a ton of perks for aspiring tech pros like us. Getting hands-on experience through an online internship in New Zealand can seriously boost your chances of scoring that sweet remote job you've been eyeing.
Plus, you'll level up your skills in areas like time management, adaptability, and independent work - all essential for remote roles.
Platforms like Internshala have made it a cakewalk to find remote tech internships across various domains, including:
- Web Development - Internships focused on front-end, back-end, and full-stack web development using popular frameworks and languages.
- Mobile App Development - Opportunities to build mobile applications for iOS and Android platforms using tools like Swift, Kotlin, and React Native.
- Data Science - Internships involving data analysis, machine learning, and artificial intelligence projects.
- Cloud Computing - Hands-on experience with cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud.
To make the most of your remote tech internship experience, consider these tips:
- Establish a Dedicated Workspace: Set up a quiet, distraction-free area in your home for your internship, mimicking an office environment.
- Embrace Virtual Communication: Actively participate in video calls, chat channels, and online collaboration tools used by your internship provider.
- Network Like a Boss: Don't just sit back and code - connect with professionals in the company, attend virtual events, and grow your network.
- Document Your Achievements: Maintain a portfolio of your work, including code samples, project documentation, and any certifications or training completed during the internship.
"An internship is the best way to gain real-world experience and test-drive a potential career path." - Jennifer Lopez, Career Counselor at University of California, Berkeley
By securing a remote tech internship through platforms like Internshala, you'll not only develop practical skills but also build a valuable network and a competitive edge for landing your dream job after graduation.
Conclusion: Crafting a Successful Strategy
(Up)Let's wrap up this remote job hunt guide for my fellow Kiwis! Get clued up on the hottest tech roles in 2024 and stack your strategy with multiple tactics.
The pros know that a multi-pronged approach is the way to go. According to a Remote.com survey, 76% of remote techies hit the jackpot by combining LinkedIn, GitHub, and job boards like RemoteOK and We Work Remotely.
Plus, 62% credited online coding bootcamps and certs from platforms like Coursera and Udemy for leveling up their skills and landing sweet gigs.
Take Patricia Anderson, an ex-Nucamp student from Auckland who scored a remote front-end dev role by:
- Enhancing her LinkedIn to showcase coding projects and tech skills
- Contributing to open-source projects on GitHub, building her portfolio
- Applying to remote listings on RemoteOK and We Work Remotely
- Obtaining React and JavaScript certs from Udemy
- Participating in hackathons hosted by HackerEarth to sharpen her skills
"Combining these strategies expanded my network, let me keep upskilling, and proved my capabilities to employers," says Patricia Anderson.
So, as you chase that dream remote tech job in 2024, remember: persistence, continuous learning, and a multi-pronged approach are key.
Utilize online resources, stay updated on industry trends, and don't sleep on remote internships or freelance work to bulk up your portfolio. With dedication and a solid game plan, those remote tech opportunities will be yours for the taking!
Frequently Asked Questions
(Up)How can I optimize my LinkedIn profile to land a remote tech job?
To optimize your LinkedIn profile for a remote tech job, craft a standout headline, tell your story in the 'About' section by highlighting your tech achievements, list your coding skills under 'Skills & Endorsements,' showcase your work with projects and code samples, and actively engage with content and posts.
Why is leveraging GitHub important for remote tech job seekers?
Leveraging GitHub is crucial as it serves as an online portfolio where you can showcase your coding projects. Organizing your projects neatly, using clear commit messages, and maintaining well-documented repos can impress potential employers and demonstrate your technical skills and collaboration abilities.
What are the benefits of applying on remote job boards like RemoteOK and We Work Remotely?
Applying on remote job boards like RemoteOK and We Work Remotely increases your visibility to global employers. These platforms list thousands of remote tech jobs and provide features like search filters, job alerts, and community forums, enhancing your chances of finding the right remote tech role.
How can participating in hackathons help me land a remote tech job?
Participating in hackathons enhances your coding skills, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork experience. Events hosted by HackerEarth and Major League Hacking offer opportunities to develop projects under pressure, network with industry professionals, and stand out to potential employers.
What advantages do online coding bootcamps like Nucamp offer for aspiring remote tech professionals?
Online coding bootcamps like Nucamp provide flexible, comprehensive training in current technologies such as React, Node.js, and Python. They offer career support, including resume guidance and connections to employers. According to Nucamp's 2024 Outcomes Report, 92% of job-seeking graduates find employment within 180 days.
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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.