Landing remote job opportunities with US companies requires preparation and an understanding of cultural nuances and the specific hiring processes of American businesses. For tech professionals in particular, aligning with cultural and technical expectations can be a significant advantage. Check out essential tips to stand out and increase your chances of getting hired!
Research Company Culture and Values
Before any interview, it’s essential to understand the company’s values. American companies tend to value proactivity, teamwork, and flexibility to adapt to change.
Thoroughly research the company: history, mission, vision, values, products/services, market, and organizational culture.
- When: Begin researching as soon as you know about the job opening.
- Where: Use the company’s website, social media, news articles, and review platforms like Glassdoor.
- What: Identify the company’s values and how your experiences and skills align with them.
- Why: Demonstrating knowledge about the company shows genuine interest and boosts your chances.
- How: Take notes on the most relevant information to use during the interview.
In addition to technical skills, recruiters often seek professionals aligned with organizational values. Therefore, thoroughly researching company culture and incorporating that understanding into presenting your experiences and goals during interviews is crucial.
You can dive deeper into this step-by-step guide: The 7 Top Resources for Preparing for Technical Interviews with US Software Companies.
Prepare for a Structured Hiring Process
Unlike many Brazilian companies, US companies typically follow a more structured hiring process, consisting of multiple stages such as screening calls, technical and behavioral interviews, and practical tests.
Prepare on your own or with the help of a mentor or coach, if needed.
- When: Start preparing early by simulating interviews and answering common questions.
- Where: In a quiet environment with access to study materials and communication tools.
- What: Prepare answers for behavioral, technical, and experience-related questions.
- Why: A well-structured hiring process requires preparation and organization.
- How: Use online platforms with interview simulations and resources for preparation.
Show enthusiasm and commitment to completing each stage, and remember to maintain professionalism in all interactions. Punctuality and engagement are highly valued traits in the American market.
Tailor Your Resume to American Standards
To stand out in an international remote job, your resume should align with American market expectations. This includes listing technical skills and results objectively, focusing on measurable achievements.
You can use AI, but it’s better to rely on an HR professional or resume expert.
- When: Tailor your resume for each job you apply for.
- Where: Use American resume templates and online formatting tools.
- What: Highlight your accomplishments, use action verbs, and quantify your results.
- Why: A well-formatted and tailored resume increases your chances of getting selected.
- How: Research different American resume formats and choose the one that best fits your profile.
Avoid including unnecessary personal data such as age or a photo, as these are not common practices in the US. Demonstrating familiarity with international remote work contracts improves your credibility in the process.
Develop Essential Communication Skills
Effective communication is one of the pillars of a successful remote job. Since American teams rely heavily on digital tools for communication, it’s essential to excel in clarity and punctuality, whether via email, Slack, or online meetings.
To achieve this, it’s crucial to enhance your English skills to participate in complex discussions and collaborate productively. Being well-prepared for remote interviews also demonstrates your commitment to the opportunity.
Invest in online courses, books, and practice.
- When: Start improving your communication skills as early as possible.
- Where: Through online courses, conversation groups, and interview simulations.
- What: Enhance your English fluency, develop active listening skills, and practice clear, concise communication.
- Why: Effective communication is fundamental to success in any job.
- How: Practice communication in different scenarios, such as presentations, meetings, and group discussions.
Understand and Value Cultural Differences
While many companies promote inclusive environments, cultural differences can impact how you’re perceived. In the US, direct and assertive communication is common and not considered rude. In Brazil, however, communication tends to be more indirect.
Prepare through research, books, and interacting with people from diverse cultures.
- When: Start learning about American culture before beginning your job search.
- Where: From books, articles, blogs, and conversations with people who have worked in American companies.
- What: Understand American values, customs, and professional etiquette.
- Why: Demonstrating respect and knowledge of American culture is key to adapting to your new work environment.
- How: Join online groups and attend events to connect with people from diverse cultures.
During the hiring process, strive for balance by demonstrating transparency and respect for hierarchy. Being aware of these nuances and showing cultural flexibility are significant differentiators.
Demonstrate Familiarity with Remote Work Tools and Practices
Remote interviews require attention to technical details, such as environment and internet connection, as well as strong communication skills. Punctuality and clarity in your responses are aspects highly valued by recruiters from American companies hiring online.
Leverage online courses, tutorials, and practice.
- When: Get familiar with the tools even before starting the hiring process.
- Where: Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer courses on remote work tools.
- What: Master communication, collaboration, and project management tools like Slack, Zoom, Trello, and Asana.
- Why: Demonstrating familiarity with remote work tools shows you’re prepared for the challenge.
- How: Create a profile on platforms like LinkedIn and join groups about remote work.
American companies expect candidates to be proficient with productivity tools like Trello, Jira, and Slack, as well as agile methodologies like Scrum and Kanban.
The ability to work remotely includes not only mastering these tools but also staying organized and productive. Consider mentioning your experience with these platforms and methodologies in your resume and interviews.
Explain Why You Chose to Work Remotely for US Companies
During interviews, explain your reasons for seeking remote work with American companies, highlighting how this aligns with your professional development.
It may be worthwhile to mention your interest in working with cutting-edge technologies or in innovative environments, which are often associated with the American market. This kind of motivation aligned with the company’s interests creates a positive impression with recruiters.
Reflect on your experiences and career goals.
- When: Prepare your answer ahead of the interview.
- Where: In a quiet environment where you can think clearly.
- What: Highlight your reasons for working remotely, such as flexibility, opportunities to work with different cultures, and access to new experiences.
- Why: Explaining your reasons demonstrates genuine interest and alignment with the company’s culture.
- How: Prepare concrete examples to illustrate your response.
Got an interview? Then learn more about How to Turn Remote Tech Interviews into Job Offers.
Leverage Ubiminds’ Network to Boost Your Reputation
One of the major benefits of working with Ubiminds is the ability to use its network and reputation as leverage in the hiring process. Since Ubiminds has already built trusted relationships with American companies, you enter the hiring process with the backing of an experienced organization that guarantees your professionalism and commitment. This type of endorsement can be decisive in competing for a position in a highly competitive market.
With these tips and solid preparation, you set yourself apart from other candidates and increase your chances of success when pursuing remote job opportunities with American companies. Partnered with a company like Ubiminds, you can maximize your potential and focus on building a strong career abroad!
FAQ: Tips to Stand Out in Recruitment Processes
International Marketing Leader, specialized in tech. Proud to have built marketing and business generation structures for some of the fastest-growing SaaS companies on both sides of the Atlantic (UK, DACH, Iberia, LatAm, and NorthAm). Big fan of motherhood, world music, marketing, and backpacking. A little bit nerdy too!