Creating an illustrious career from the comfort of your home is one benefit that remote workers enjoy regardless of the industry. There’s no doubt that remote work has come to stay, and millions of people are making the transition every day. But, building a successful remote career in Asia isn’t a walk in the park.
What is a Remote Career?
A remote career is a professional career where you work from anywhere outside a traditional office environment. The work could be done from home, from personal workspace, or while commuting. Remote workers use digital communication tools like email and messaging and project management apps and platforms to stay connected with teams and clients.
Types of Remote Careers
The major types of remote include:
- Freelancing: Freelancers are career people who work on independent projects for clients.
- Remote Employee: These career people are like regular employees hired by companies, except they work remotely.
- Entrepreneurship: These career people run an online business, for example, e-commerce or consulting.
How To Build A Remote Career In Asia
There are some steps to follow to build a remote career in Asia. How well you follow these steps will largely determine your level of success once you kick start your career.
1. Build Up Your Skills
Building your skills is the first step to having an internationally recognized remote career in Asia.
If you’re going to be working remotely, chances are that you’re offering a digital skill or service that doesn’t require physical presence. The list could include tech skills like programming and web development, creative skills like video editing and graphic design, or financial trading skills.
Whatever industry you choose to work in, it’s nearly impossible to build a reputable career or make money if you don’t first master your skill to a high standard. And so, before you begin to search for remote opportunities, pick a skill and master it to the best of your ability. Thankfully, with the help of the Internet, you can learn anything from the comfort of your home.
2. Find Remote Jobs in Your Niche
Finding remote jobs is the next step. There are many remote job boards you can use to get work. Depending on your preference or career path, you could opt for platforms with full-time job listings or you could seek part-time alternatives.
Some companies will advertise remote work opportunities on their websites or on major social platforms like LinkedIn. Plus, you could also get clients to pay you per project on freelance websites like Upwork and Fiverr.
3. Build Your Online Presence
Without building your online presence, you’ll keep getting scrap jobs even if you’re the most skilled in your field. Big multinational companies always desire individuals with proven track records and good online presence before hiring.
This is why a huge part of your remote career success depends on personal branding. Things like having a professional portfolio, visibility on major platforms like LinkedIn or X, and owning a personal website are all important. Without a strong online presence, you’re a ghost to employers, especially those with deep pockets.
4. Network With Others
Nothing creates quick success like networking. Joining online groups/communities of people in the same field as you could be the game changer in your remote career.
You get to meet experts, share knowledge and may even find some rare job opportunities. Networking in Asia is even easier as you could attend local events for remote workers in certain cities like Bali or Singapore.
5. Choose an Ideal Location
Most remote workers work from home. Some rent an office or studio for more privacy and professionalism. Either way, you have to choose the right location to set up a base.
How To Choose the Right Location For Remote Work in Asia
Here’s what you should consider when choosing a location for remote work in Asia.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Asia varies widely from country to country. So, unless you’re earning six or seven figures, it’s best to choose a place that’s more affordable.
Locations like Singapore are known to be expensive. If Singapore is the place you most want to be, you’ll need a solid base of well-paying clients or a generous employer. Until then, you’re probably better off choosing more affordable cities like Bangkok or Kuala Lumpur.
Privacy and Tranquility
Largely, remote work requires focus, so the need for a quiet environment can’t be overemphasized. Always check out the tranquility of a neighborhood before you move in.
Security
High-tech gadgets, laptops, and phones. These are what you’ll use to work remotely and make money. As such, keeping these items safe is a high priority.
A tight-security neighborhood, coupled with a remote-work culture, will greatly accelerate your success as a remote worker.
Local Community Culture
There are certain regions or communities in Asia that already possess a large pool of remote workers. A good example is Chiang Mai, Thailand, and Hanoi, Vietnam.
These locations are preferable since they contain communities already used to the remote work culture. This is because you won’t get unnecessary attention or tax/legal implications. Plus, these communities also provide networking opportunities.
What Are the Most Profitable Remote Careers in Asia?
Here’s a list of the most profitable remote careers in Asia:
- Software Developer: Fellows in this career earn an average annual salary of $132,000.
- Project Manager: Salaries range from $75,000 to $100,000 per year.
- Forex Trading: Using tools like TradingView Singapore, forex traders can earn anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000 per month or around $120,000 yearly.
- Digital Marketer: Digital marketers earn anywhere from $50,000 and up.
- Content Writers: Remote content writers earn anywhere from $20,000 to $80,000 per year. However, the numbers can shoot up when it comes to renowned freelance content writers.
Final Tips for Anyone Looking To Build Their Remote Career
Building a successful remote career in Asia – or any other part of the world – takes time. It may take years to finally see results. Nevertheless, if you can follow the steps listed here and stay patient, there’s no doubt that you can earn a living without working in a traditional office setting.
