Questions to ask Before Accepting a Remote job

Just because a company is offering a remote job, doesn’t mean it will meet the expectations you had in mind. So whether you’ll be freelancing or working full-time, here are some questions to ask before accepting a remote job:

• What will my hours be?
• Do I get an internet allowance?
• Will equipment be provided?
• What is the company culture like?
• How does payment work?
• Will I ever be required to come into an office?
• How are remote emergencies handled?
• What are the methods of communication?
• Will I be working alone or in a team?

What Will my Hours be?

This is a very important question, especially if you’re working remotely for a company based overseas. Their 9am-5pm might be your 9pm-5am. If time differences are an issue, perhaps it’s best to find a job locally. 

Do I get an Internet Allowance?

South Africa has some of the most expensive data on the continent. So it is understandable if you’re concerned about how you’re going to foot your internet bill, especially if you’ll be spending hours in virtual meetings. 

Will Equipment be Provided?

The basic requirement for working from home is a computer. However, if you have a job in a field such as IT, any old PC won’t do. Be sure to ask if they will provide you with the tools needed for your job or if you need to seek out your own. 

What is the Company Culture Like?

This is an excellent question to ask during an interview, especially if it is a hybrid workplace. If the interviewers struggle to give you an answer, it’s a red flag. Chances are that if the in-person company culture is bad, then working remotely won’t be any better. 

How Does Payment Work?

Only ask about this when you’ve officially been offered the job, not during interviews. It’s important to know if you’re being paid via a platform such as Paypal, so you can begin to set it up. This is also a chance to find out about any deductions, such as tax or medical aid. 

Will I Ever be Required to Come into an Office?

Even if you are working a permanent remote job, there might be days where you need to go in to the office. Such cases could include days where the HR department wants to do staff training. If you live several hours away from the office, this will be an issue.   

How are Remote Emergencies Handled?

This is another crucial part of having a remote job. Ask the company what happens if you experience loadshedding or a serious illness. Some, especially international companies, might ask you to work after hours to catch up.    

What are the Methods of Communication?

If you’re working a remote job, you can’t just walk into someone’s office if you have questions or concerns. So ask them what their preferred style of communication is. It could include virtual meetings or even emails. Either way, make sure it is a method you’re comfortable with. 

Will I be Working Alone or in a Team?

The people skills needed to be successful in the workplace are still relevant when working from home. This knowledge will give you an idea of what the company’s expectations are and how to manage your work duties.