What Skills are Most in-demand for Remote work [in Major Industries]?

If you are looking to switch to a career or work that enables you work remotely (it's cool to own more of your time, travel while working etc), your best bet is to have one or more of the skills in demand by employers.

To choose a career that allows you work remotely you should know which skills are more relevant in today's world. What skills are more in demand by organisations around the world? What careers are more hired for remote positions?

To help you choose or decide where to focus on - for acquiring the right skills that will help you land a high paying remote job, go through our exhaustive list of skills that are in demand for remote work.

For easier navigation we have grouped the top skills according to various industries where they are most heavily in demand.

TECHNOLOGY

The technology industry has become one of the biggest drivers of remote work with many growing technology & IT companies either running fully remote or partially remote teams. Some of the most in demand skills most hired for by technology companies include;

• Cloud computing: skills in cloud computing platforms such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform (GCP) are highly sought after. Experience with serverless computing, containerization, and microservices architectures are also valuable
• Cybersecurity: as remote work becomes more prevalent, cybersecurity skills are increasingly important. Companies are looking for professionals with knowledge in network security, data encryption, cloud security, and threat detection and mitigation
• Software Development: software development skills, including proficiency in programming languages like Python, Java, and JavaScript, are in high demand. Knowledge of front-end and back-end development, as well as experience with agile methodologies, DevOps, and testing frameworks, is also highly valuable.
• Data Science: the ability to analyze and interpret data is crucial for businesses today. Data scientists and analysts with expertise in machine learning, natural language processing, data visualization, and big data are highly sought after.
• Project Management: strong project management skills are essential for remote work. Companies are looking for professionals who can manage teams, communicate effectively, and utilize project management tools such as Asana, Trello, or Jira.
• Digital Marketing: with the rise of digital channels, digital marketing skills are highly valued. Companies are seeking professionals with experience in SEO, SEM, social media marketing, content marketing, and email marketing. Companies will always seek for ways to reach more customers and clients via the various emerging and existing digital channels.
• UI/UX Design: the ability to create intuitive and aesthetically pleasing user interfaces and experiences is in high demand. Companies are looking for professionals with knowledge of design software such as Sketch, Adobe Creative Suite, or Figma, as well as experience in user research, wireframing, and prototyping.

MEDICAL/HEALTHCARE

Especially in the wake of Covid-19 there are several in demand remote work skills in the medical and healthcare industy globally. Some of these skills that will get you decent remote jobs include;

• Telemedicine: The ability to provide remote medical care and consultation has become crucial during the pandemic, and is likely to remain important in the future. Medical professionals who can use telemedicine tools to diagnose and treat patients remotely are in high demand
• Electronic Medical Records (EMR): Medical organizations are increasingly using EMRs to store patient information and streamline their operations. Medical professionals who are proficient in using EMR software to manage patient records and track treatments are in high demand.
• Medical Coding and Billing: Medical coders and billers are responsible for translating medical procedures and diagnoses into standardized codes for billing and reimbursement purposes. These skills are important for medical professionals who are involved in the billing and reimbursement process, particularly in remote work settings.
• Health Informatics: Health informatics involves the use of technology and data analytics to improve healthcare delivery and patient outcomes. Medical professionals who are skilled in using data analysis tools and software to optimize healthcare processes and improve patient care are in high demand.
• Medical Writing: Medical writing involves the creation of scientific documents and regulatory submissions for medical research and drug development. Medical professionals who are skilled in medical writing and can work remotely are in high demand.

FINANCE

The finance industry is increasingly going remote and relies on several skills for its growing remote workforce. Learn any of these skills for greater chance of landing a remote job in the finance industry;

• Data Analysis: Data analysis skills are in high demand in the finance industry, as financial organizations generate and process vast amounts of data. Professionals who are proficient in using data analysis tools and software to interpret financial data and make informed decisions are highly valued.
• Financial Modelling: Financial modeling involves creating financial projections and forecasts to help organizations make informed decisions about investments, budgets, and other financial matters. Professionals who are skilled in financial modeling are highly sought after, particularly in remote work settings where the ability to work with complex financial models from anywhere is important.
• Accounting: Accounting skills are always in demand in the finance industry. Professionals who are proficient in managing financial records, preparing financial statements, and ensuring compliance with accounting standards are highly valued.
• Investment Analysis: Investment analysts play a crucial role in the finance industry, analyzing investment opportunities and providing recommendations to organizations and individuals. Professionals who are skilled in investment analysis and can work remotely are highly sought after.
• Financial Planning: Financial planners help individuals and organizations develop financial strategies that meet their goals and objectives. Professionals who are skilled in financial planning and can work remotely are highly valued, particularly in the wake of the pandemic, which has increased the demand for remote financial advice.

CONSULTING

The consulting industry is diverse and can be complex. While starting out in career, if you wish to get mostly remote jobs you should try become adept in any of the following, to increase your chances;

• Project Management: Project management skills are essential for consultants, who often work on complex projects with tight deadlines. Consultants who are skilled in project management, including planning, organization, and coordination, are highly valued.
• Data Analysis: Data analysis skills are important for consultants, who are often called upon to analyze data and provide insights to clients. Consultants who are proficient in using data analysis tools and software to interpret data and identify trends are highly sought after.
• Problem Solving: Consultants are often called upon to solve complex problems for clients, and must be skilled in analyzing problems, developing solutions, and implementing them effectively. Consultants who are skilled in problem-solving and critical thinking are highly sought after.
• Business Analysis: Business analysis also involves working collaboratively with stakeholders across different departments and functions within an organization, which is an important aspect of remote consulting work. Effective communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills are all essential for success as a remote business analyst in the consulting industry.
• Strategic Planning: Consultants must be skilled in strategic planning, which involves developing long-term plans and goals for a business or organization. This skill is important for remote work in the consulting industry, as it enables consultants to help clients plan for the future and to identify opportunities for growth.
• Design Thinking: Design thinking is a problem-solving approach that involves empathizing with users, defining problems, ideating solutions, prototyping, and testing. Consultants who are skilled in design thinking can help clients develop innovative solutions to complex problems, even when working remotely.
• Sales and Marketing: Marketing and sales skills are important for consultants who work with clients in industries such as marketing, advertising, and sales. Consultants who are skilled in developing marketing strategies, creating sales plans, and managing customer relationships remotely are highly sought after.

MEDIA

• Video Production and Editing: proficiency in video production software such as Adobe Premiere, Final Cut Pro, or DaVinci Resolve is highly valued. Knowledge of video codecs, resolution, and compression is also important.
• Social Media Management: companies are seeking professionals who can create, schedule, and analyze social media content across different platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
• Search Engine Optimisation: the ability to optimize digital content for search engines such as Google and Bing is highly valued.
• Digital Marketing: Digital marketing skills are essential for the media industry, as companies look to reach audiences through online channels such as social media, email, and search engines. Consultants who are skilled in digital marketing can help clients develop and execute effective digital marketing strategies, even when working remotely.
• Content Creation: Content creation skills are critical for the media industry, as companies look to produce engaging and informative content for their audiences. Consultants who are skilled in content creation, including writing, video production, and graphic design, are highly valued.
• Data Analysis: Data analysis skills are important for the media industry, as companies look to measure the effectiveness of their campaigns and make data-driven decisions. Consultants who are skilled in data analysis can help clients gather, analyze, and interpret data to improve their campaigns and make better decisions, even when working remotely.
• Project Management: Project management skills are essential for consultants in the media industry, who often work on complex projects with multiple stakeholders and tight deadlines. Consultants who are skilled in project management, including planning, organization, and coordination, are highly valued.

MARKETING

• Email Marketing and Automation: proficiency in email marketing and automation software such as Mailchimp, Hubspot, or Marketo is highly valued. Knowledge of A/B testing and segmentation is also important.
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): experience with CRM software such as Salesforce or Microsoft Dynamics is highly valued.
• Influencer Marketing: the ability to identify and collaborate with influencers and thought leaders is important in building brand awareness and driving conversions.

LOGISTICS, OPERATIONS

The logistics and operations industry is a critical part of the global economy, responsible for managing the movement of goods and services from one place to another. The industry is constantly evolving and becoming more reliant on technology, which means that there is a growing demand for remote work skills. Here are some of the most in-demand remote work skills for the logistics and operations industry;

• Supply Chain Management: Supply chain management involves managing the flow of goods and services from the point of origin to the point of consumption. Consultants who are skilled in supply chain management can help clients optimize their supply chain operations, reduce costs, and improve efficiency, even when working remotely.
• Data Analysis: Data analytics skills are increasingly important for the logistics and operations industry, as data-driven insights can help companies make better decisions and improve their operations. Consultants who are skilled in data analytics can help clients gather, analyze, and interpret data to identify trends, patterns, and opportunities for improvement.
• Project Management: Project management skills are essential for consultants in the logistics and operations industry, who often work on complex projects with multiple stakeholders and tight deadlines. Consultants who are skilled in project management, including planning, organization, and coordination, are highly valued.
• Process Improvement: Process improvement skills are essential for consultants in the logistics and operations industry, as they help clients identify areas where processes can be streamlined, standardized, and optimized. Consultants who are skilled in process improvement can help clients reduce costs, improve efficiency, and enhance customer satisfaction.

RETAIL, CONSUMER

The retail and consumer industry is a complex and highly competitive sector, where companies are constantly looking for ways to improve their operations, increase efficiency, and boost sales. Here are some of the most in-demand remote work skills for this industry:

• E-commerce: E-commerce skills are essential for the retail and consumer industry, as companies look to sell products online and expand their digital presence. Consultants who are skilled in e-commerce can help clients develop and execute effective e-commerce strategies, including website development, online marketing, and sales optimization.
• Data Analysis: Data analysis skills are increasingly important for the retail and consumer industry, as companies look to gather, analyze, and interpret data to gain insights into consumer behavior, trends, and preferences. Consultants who are skilled in data analysis can help clients make data-driven decisions to improve their operations and increase sales, even when working remotely.
• Supply Chain Management: Supply chain management skills are critical for the retail and consumer industry, as companies look to manage the flow of goods from suppliers to consumers efficiently. Consultants who are skilled in supply chain management can help clients optimize their supply chain operations, reduce costs, and improve efficiency, even when working remotely.
• Customer Service: Customer service skills are essential for the retail and consumer industry, as companies look to provide excellent customer experiences and build strong relationships with their customers. Consultants who are skilled in customer service can help clients develop and implement effective customer service strategies, including customer support, feedback management, and customer engagement, even when working remotely.
• Digital Marketing: Digital marketing skills are essential for the media industry, as companies look to reach audiences through online channels such as social media, email, and search engines. Retail brands are always on the lookout for people with the right digital marketing skills to generate good ROI on their digital advertising channels
• Search Engine Optimisation: Many retail and consumer brands rely on organic search engine traffic to attract prospective customers and grow sales. The ability to optimise their content and websites, onlie shops etc for search engines such as Google, Bing etc are always welcome.

EDUCATION

The education and edtech industry has seen tremendous growth in remote work opportunities in recent years, particularly with the rise of online learning. Here are some of the most in-demand remote work skills for the education/edtech industry:

• Online Teaching/Tutoring: With the growth of online learning, remote teaching has become an in-demand skill. Online teachers need to be proficient in using online teaching platforms, developing engaging lesson plans, and providing feedback to students.
• Curriculum Development: Curriculum developers create educational materials and lesson plans that align with academic standards and educational objectives. They need to have a deep understanding of pedagogical theories and educational best practices.
• Instructional Design: Instructional designers develop and implement educational content for online and blended learning environments. They need to have strong skills in multimedia design, web development, and project management.
• Educational Technology: Edtech professionals help schools and other educational organizations integrate technology into their teaching and learning practices. They need to be proficient in educational software, learning management systems, and online teaching platforms.
• Academic Writing: Academic writers create educational content such as textbooks, study guides, and online courses. They need to have strong research skills and be able to write in a clear and engaging style.
• Assessment and Evaluation: Assessment and evaluation professionals develop and administer tests and assessments to measure student learning outcomes. They need to have strong skills in data analysis and be able to use educational assessment tools.
• Digital Marketing: Edtech companies are continually looking for individuals who have the skills to drive their digital marketing and attract both individual and corporate users via digital channels

NON PROFIT

The non-profit industry encompasses a wide range of organizations, from charities to advocacy groups to social enterprises. Here are some of the most in-demand remote work skills for the non-profit industry:

• Fundraising: Fundraising professionals help non-profits raise money through grant writing, donor cultivation, and events planning. They need to have strong communication and relationship-building skills.
• Marketing and Communications: Non-profits rely heavily on effective marketing and communication strategies to promote their causes and attract supporters. Marketing and communication professionals need to have strong writing and digital marketing skills.
• Grant Writing: Grant writers are responsible for researching and writing grant proposals to secure funding for non-profit organizations. They need to have strong writing and research skills, as well as a deep understanding of the grant writing process.
• Program Management: Program managers oversee the day-to-day operations of non-profit programs and ensure that they are aligned with the organization's mission and goals. They need to have strong project management and leadership skills.
• Volunteer Management: Volunteer managers are responsible for recruiting, training, and coordinating volunteers for non-profit organizations. They need to have strong organizational and communication skills, as well as a passion for volunteerism and community engagement.
• Financial Management: Financial managers are responsible for managing the finances of non-profit organizations, including budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting. They need to have strong financial analysis and management skills.

MANUFACTURING

The manufacturing industry has a wide range of sub-industries, from automotive and aerospace to food and consumer goods. Here are some of the most in-demand remote work skills for the manufacturing industry:

• Supply Chain Management: Supply chain management professionals are responsible for overseeing the flow of goods and services from suppliers to customers. They need to have strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as expertise in logistics and inventory management.
• Quality Control: Quality control professionals ensure that products meet the quality standards set by the manufacturer and regulatory bodies. They need to have strong attention to detail and analytical skills, as well as a deep understanding of manufacturing processes and product specifications.
• Engineering: Engineers are responsible for designing, developing, and improving manufacturing processes and products. They need to have strong technical skills, as well as expertise in a specific field of engineering (e.g. mechanical, electrical, or chemical engineering).
• Project Management: Project managers oversee the planning, execution, and monitoring of manufacturing projects. They need to have strong leadership and communication skills, as well as expertise in project management methodologies and tools.
• Data Analysis: Data analysts use statistical analysis and machine learning techniques to extract insights from manufacturing data. They need to have strong analytical and programming skills, as well as expertise in data analysis tools and software.

These are by no means all the remote job skills that can get you remote jobs in various industries but they are the more popular ones by demand from employers. To improve your chances of getting a remote job in any of these industries position yourself to become very knowledgeable in one or more of these areas.

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