Working From Home as a Programmer
For those who are used to working in an office, the idea of starting a new job in remote software development, whether it’s a permanent position or a contract one, can be intimidating. Nevertheless, more and more big companies are embracing this kind of work style.
Looking to be a part of a top IT company? Are you interested in remotely working with C-level executives?
If you said yes, it can be challenging to stand out in the $1464.4 million remote industry. Technical expertise alone isn’t enough to be recruited as a remote software developer in today’s market. However, finding work as a remote software developer is not hard; you just need to have the right mindset. You can learn more about it in our suggested articles on recruiting and orienting new software developers and on how to maximise productivity in a remote engineering team.
The IT industry had already adopted remote working solutions even before the pandemic struck. According to a recent survey by Buffer, 98% of software business employees showed interest in remote working as a possibility in their careers.
By working remotely, a software engineer can have the liberty to set their own schedule and stay closer to their loved ones.
The software development industry is among the most celebrated in the world, employing approximately 21 million technically skilled individuals by 2023. Nevertheless, due to the fast expansion of remote work, obtaining dependable data regarding the matter can be hard. In conclusion, becoming a prosperous remote software engineer goes beyond mastering technical skills. Prospective candidates must also possess the essential qualities necessary for working remotely.
To adopt the mindset of a successful remote software engineer, it’s essential to develop the following skillsets and behavioural traits:
Self-Reliance and Initiative
At Works, we frequently assist clients in finding independent, remote software engineers since companies usually have limited time to offer guidance and training for each task. The primary advantage of hiring remote software engineers is their proficiency, experience, and expertise, allowing them to perform tasks with minimal supervision.
To succeed in a remote software engineering position, it is essential to be self-sufficient and capable of working independently. Having strong internal motivation is critical since depending too heavily on peers can decrease productivity. Ideally, a remote software developer must handle both front-end and back-end development processes independently to accomplish tasks. Collaborating effectively with colleagues can facilitate task division and problem-solving.Embrace Critique with a Positive Attitude
As an adept remote software developer, being receptive to customer feedback is essential to ensure that your work aligns with their goals. Regular feedback facilitates this alignment. When receiving criticism, stay positive and avoid taking it to heart. Attempt to comprehend the client’s perspective, and engage in discussing what you’ve learned with them. Establishing a shared database where a wide range of issues can be discussed openly can aid in communication.Upon Receiving Feedback, Do the Following:
Thoroughly analyze the input, voice your opinions, and weigh the consequences thoughtfully prior to deciding. Seek clarification if any details are unclear without hesitation.Assume Responsibility in All Cases
Keeping a record of conversations with your manager may be advantageous in comprehending prior occurrences and preparing for subsequent situations.Commit to Personal and Professional Development.
Remember to record any thoughts or inquiries you have for the next discussion with the client. By doing so, you can demonstrate your receptiveness to their input while also evaluating your own progress.Choose Appropriate Resources and Techniques
A wide range of software applications is readily available to support remote work. These tools make it easier for teams to collaborate and manage tasks, resulting in successful project outcomes. As a remote software developer, numerous applications are available to enhance your workflow and the standard development environment, such as Slack, Discord, Zoom, Skype, Microsoft Teams, Google Hangouts, GitHub, Trello, Cisco Webex, Asana, InVision, CodePen, Google Drive, and Dropbox.
It is also crucial to ensure that the office and workstation are set up in a way that allows for an effective working environment. Obstructions in the working environment can lead to lower productivity.
- Establishing a comfortable (and stable) work environment is the initial step.
- Eliminate any potential disruptions in your immediate environment.
- An excellent camera and microphone are necessary to ensure that all team members can hear and comprehend one another.
- A fast computer that can readily handle all of your routine work
Adapting to Time Zone Differences
For remote software engineers, disparities in time zones can pose a challenge. To ensure prompt issue resolution, most businesses prefer to communicate with offshore engineers in real-time, necessitating scheduling adjustments to match the client’s time zone.
With a time difference of over 12 hours between the United States and Asia, it can be quite difficult for remote software developers working for American firms from Asia. Careful planning of meetings and follow-up tasks is required. To accommodate clients in various time zones, a remote software developer must be able to adjust their work schedule.Effective Communication
Working remotely mandates excellent communication skills for success. Without clear communication, understanding the client’s perspective and presenting one’s ideas becomes arduous. As a result, ensure that you have a dependable means of communicating with your clients. Additionally, hold video team meetings at least once a month. One of the most challenging aspects of remote software engineering is fostering effective team communication. However, this can only be an issue if one perceives it as such.
On arriving at the office, colleagues greet you as you approach your desk, signaling your readiness to begin work.
Remote software engineers must be more transparent and open about their work status. Establishing a reliable system of communication with colleagues can reduce time wasted searching for one another throughout the building.Create a Feasible Schedule
Working remotely as a software developer may seem like an opportunity to work in a relaxed setting, but it is crucial to maintain a professional attitude. Meeting deadlines and keeping stakeholders informed of progress and any challenges encountered are critical factors in achieving success.
When working for a company that utilizes remote software developers, asynchronous communication with colleagues, such as waiting for an email response for several hours, may be necessary. Other firms seeking to engage remote software developers are likely to require your availability during regular business hours for immediate remote team communication.Connect with Other Developers and Participate in Communities
If you seek to expand your skills and lack immediate access to peers, joining a community of remote software developers can be an excellent way to learn and gain experience. Additionally, you can discover new areas of knowledge that you may not have known about otherwise. Furthermore, by offering a service that showcases your particular skills and could pique the interest of other members, you can establish a solid reputation.
The Secret to Succeeding in Remote Software Development
To establish a successful remote career, engineers need up-to-date essential skills, capabilities, and experience. As the remote field is currently flourishing, it is crucial to acquire new knowledge and develop existing skills to secure employment with a highly-regarded organization.
When you join the Works skill base by Works, you will gain access to essential resources that will help you become a productive member of a remote software development team. Additionally, we are capable of monitoring the teams you are working with to ensure you are always in the appropriate location.
