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Tips for Writing Remote Job Descriptions: Attract Top Talent




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Tips for Writing Remote Job Descriptions: Attract Top Talent


Writing a remote job description isn’t just about listing tasks; it’s about connecting with the right people.


When you’re hiring remotely, clarity and authenticity matter more than ever. A well-written job description helps you attract motivated professionals who align with your goals, values, and work style, regardless of their location.


At We Work Remotely, the world’s largest remote job board, we’ve seen how the best listings strike the perfect balance between clarity, culture, and connection. When your post clearly outlines what success looks like and shows what makes your company a great place to work, top candidates take notice.


In this blog, we’ll cover:


  • How to define your remote role with precision and purpose
  • What to include to attract skilled, motivated global talent
  • Tips for optimizing your job post for visibility and trust


Let’s start by understanding how to clearly define your remote role — the foundation of every great job description.

Understanding the Remote Role

To write an effective remote job description, you must clearly define the job's requirements, including the skills needed and the level of experience required. This helps candidates understand the role and ensures you attract the right people.

Defining Job Responsibilities

Start by listing the main tasks the remote worker will do every day. Be specific about the role's requirements, like managing projects, answering customer questions, or coding software. Use clear language to describe duties so candidates know exactly what to expect. 

Avoid vague terms like “assist with various tasks.” Instead, say “create weekly reports” or “maintain customer databases.” Include how much independence is expected. For example, will the person work mostly alone or as part of a team? This detail helps set proper expectations for remote work.

Identifying Necessary Skills

Focus on skills that match the remote work setup. This usually means strong communication, time management, and tech skills. List the software tools the worker should know, such as Zoom, Slack, or specific project management apps. Hard skills related to the job, such as coding languages or marketing expertise, should be clear too. 

Emphasize skills that help the employee succeed without daily supervision. Soft skills are crucial in remote jobs. Include skills such as problem-solving, self-motivation, and adaptability. These help remote workers thrive in flexible environments.

Determining Required Experience

Specify the amount of work experience you desire, including both the number of years and the type. For example, “3 years in digital marketing” or “experience working remotely is a plus.” 
Being clear about experience levels helps filter candidates. 

Also, mention if specific industries or remote work backgrounds are essential. Some roles need a solid understanding of remote communication or managing virtual teams.

Crafting an Engaging Job Title

Your job title is the first thing candidates see. It needs to grab attention and clearly describe the role. A well-crafted title enhances the likelihood that your listing will stand out and reach the right people.

Keyword Optimization for Visibility

Use words that candidates are searching for. Include the main job function and level, like “Senior Marketing Manager” or “Entry-Level Customer Support Specialist." Avoid vague titles like “Ninja” or “Guru"; they confuse job seekers and may reduce your post’s reach. 

Add terms that show it's remote, such as “Remote,”“Work From Home,” or “Telecommute.” These keywords help your job appear in searches focused on remote roles. 

Use simple, clear language that reflects the role’s real duties. Balance keywords with readability. Listing too many keywords can appear spammy and deter candidates.

Highlighting Remote Work Benefits

When possible, include the perks of working remotely in the title. Words like “Flexible” or “Remote-Friendly” tell candidates you value work-life balance. Consider adding global or time-zone keywords if the role supports international teams. 

For example, “Remote Developer—US Time Zone” helps candidates determine if the hours fit their schedule. Highlighting remote benefits upfront helps your post stand out on We Work Remotely and other sites. 

It signals that your company understands and supports a remote work culture, which many candidates search for first.

Writing a Clear Job Overview


A strong job overview helps candidates quickly understand the role and your company's values. It sets the right expectations and draws in applicants who fit the job and your culture. Clear descriptions reduce confusion and make your remote listing stand out.

Summarizing Core Duties

Begin by outlining the primary tasks the remote worker will be responsible for daily. List key duties using clear, simple language. Avoid vague phrases like “other duties as assigned.” 

Instead, focus on specific responsibilities, such as managing projects, writing content, or providing customer support. Use bullet points for easy reading. 

For example:

  • Coordinate with global teams across time zones
  • Develop and edit marketing materials
  • Monitor and respond to customer inquiries

Be realistic about workload and priorities to attract candidates ready to succeed. This clarity helps them decide if they have the right skills and interest.

Communicating Company Values

Your overview should clearly convey your company's existence and what it stands for. Remote workers want to know about the culture they’ll join, especially since they might never meet colleagues in person. 

Briefly describe what your company stands for, like transparency, teamwork, or innovation. You can highlight your commitment to remote work flexibility or global collaboration. For example: “We believe flexible hours boost creativity and work-life balance.” 

This connection builds trust and helps candidates imagine themselves as part of your team. Keep this part concise but meaningful, showing what makes your company unique in the remote space.

Detailing Remote Work Requirements

When writing a remote job description, it’s important to clearly state what tools you expect candidates to use, the working hours involved, and how you expect communication to happen. This helps job seekers determine immediately if they are a good fit for the role and can effectively manage your company’s remote setup.

Technical Needs and Tools


Be specific about the technology and software required for your remote role. List the devices, apps, and platforms candidates must be familiar with, such as laptops, VPNs, or project management tools. 

If you expect employees to supply their own equipment, clearly state this. If not, explain what you provide. Precise details reduce confusion and save time in the hiring process. Mention any internet speed minimums or other tech requirements needed for smooth work. 

This keeps expectations aligned and helps your future team succeed without technical delays.

Work Hours and Time Zones

Specify the work hours you expect, including whether you require overlap with specific time zones. Remote jobs often offer flexibility, but clarity on availability helps avoid scheduling conflicts. State this early if the role operates in fixed hours or a specific time zone. 

For fully flexible roles, explain how you track hours and deadlines to keep the business running smoothly. Highlight how time zone differences will affect meetings or collaboration. This transparency helps candidates manage their schedules and avoid surprises.

Communication Expectations

Explain the main ways your team communicates. Whether you use chat apps, video calls, or email, candidates should know how often and in what format they’ll connect with colleagues. Be clear about response times. 

For example, do you expect replies within hours or days? Also, mention if there are regular team meetings or check-ins. Knowing this upfront helps candidates prepare for your company’s rhythm and stay engaged remotely.

Describing Company Culture for Remote Teams


When you describe your company culture in a remote job description, be clear about how your team works and what support you offer. This helps candidates see how they’ll fit and what to expect daily. Highlighting collaboration habits and available resources demonstrates your commitment to a connected and supported remote workforce.

Remote Collaboration Practices

Explain how your team communicates and works together across distances. Mention tools like video calls, chat apps, or project management software you use daily. You should also clarify expectations about work hours and flexibility. 

Be specific about whether you require set meeting times or allow fully flexible schedules. Share how your team handles feedback and decision-making remotely. This makes it easier for candidates to understand your workflow and their role in it.


Example list for your job description:

  • Daily stand-ups via Zoom
  • Use Slack for instant messaging
  • Weekly team retrospectives to share ideas
  • Flexible core hours from 10 AM to 3 PM, with some fixed meeting times

Support Resources for Remote Workers

Let candidates know what support they will receive to succeed remotely. This could include onboarding programs, tech equipment, or mental health resources. Also, mention if you provide stipends for home office setups or subscriptions to wellness apps. 

These perks show you care about your team’s comfort and well-being. Additionally, describe how managers maintain their connections. Regular one-on-one meetings or virtual check-ins help remote employees feel supported and valued.

Example of key support items to include:

  • Virtual onboarding with a dedicated mentor
  • Monthly stipends for work-from-home expenses
  • Access to online training and skill development
  • Mental health days and counseling services are offered remotely

Being upfront about collaboration and support details will help you attract the right remote candidates who feel confident about joining your team.

Setting Transparent Application Processes

Clear communication about what happens after someone applies helps set expectations. Being upfront about each step and how interviews will go builds trust and keeps candidates informed.

Application Steps


For example:

  • Submit application and resume
  • Initial screening call
  • Skills assessment or sample task
  • Final interview


Explain roughly how long each step takes. Let candidates know if you expect to reply within a week or longer. Include any specifics about the type of assessment or documents needed. Please specify a portfolio or references in the job description if you require a portfolio or references. This way, applicants come prepared, and you get higher-quality submissions.

Interview Structure

Explain the format of interviews clearly. Will there be video calls, phone interviews, or written tests? How many rounds will there be? Share who the candidates will meet at each stage. For example, a first call with HR, then a technical interview with the team lead. 

Mention if interviews focus on specific skills or behaviors. If you use case studies or role-playing, include that information. Being upfront about expectations shows you respect candidates’ time and effort.

Optimizing for Applicant Experience

When you write remote job descriptions, focus on making candidates feel welcomed and fairly treated. Using clear language and avoiding hidden biases helps you attract skilled applicants from diverse backgrounds. This improves the overall experience and increases the chance of finding the right fit.

Inclusive Language Choices

Choose words that welcome everyone by avoiding gender-specific terms like "he" or "she." Instead, use neutral alternatives such as "they," "you," or "the candidate." Also, avoid using slang or region-specific expressions that may confuse international applicants. 

Be clear about job requirements. For example, instead of saying “must be aggressive,” say “strong communication skills.” This helps avoid misunderstandings and makes your listing easier to read for all backgrounds. 

Highlight flexible work arrangements and respect for different time zones. This will demonstrate that you understand the realities of remote work and encourage more candidates to apply.

Avoiding Unconscious Bias

Check your job description for phrases that might discourage certain groups. Words like “young,” “energetic,” or “recent graduate” can exclude older or more experienced candidates. Instead, focus on skills and achievements. 

Use a checklist to review your posting for unnecessary barriers, like demanding very specific degrees when relevant experience suffices. Also, avoid overemphasizing cultural fit, as this can unintentionally favor candidates similar to your current team. You can increase diversity by ensuring you write with fairness and balance. 

Tools and feedback from others help you spot biased language. Clear, fair descriptions lead to more qualified applicants who feel respected from the start.

Enhancing SEO and Reach



To get your remote job listing seen by the right candidates, focus on using the right keywords and choosing the best places to post your job. Keywords help your listing show up in search results. Posting on niche remote job boards lets you connect directly with qualified remote workers.

Using Remote-Related Keywords

Including clear, remote-specific keywords in your job description helps job seekers easily find your listing. Use words like “remote,” “work from home,” “telecommute,” and “distributed team.” 

Place these keywords naturally in the job title, summary, and throughout the description. Avoid stuffing keywords and keep the language simple and relevant to the role. Mention if the job requires working across time zones or if flexibility is expected. 

This adds practical details and signals that the job is truly remote. Add skills and tools commonly associated with remote work, like “Zoom,” “Slack,” or “Asynchronous communication.” This improves your listing’s search engine ranking and attracts candidates ready for remote work.

Leveraging Niche Remote Job Boards

Posting your job on specialized remote job boards maximizes visibility among remote professionals. A site like We Work Remotely draws over 6 million monthly visitors and is a great place to start. 

It reaches a global audience already looking for remote roles. Use the job board’s filters to categorize your listing precisely. Specify job type, seniority level, and industry to connect with the right candidates. 

Many boards also offer employer profiles, so you can build your brand and show why people should work for you. Niche boards are about posting a job and joining a community. Engaging with remote workers can increase your chances of finding the right fit more quickly.

Final Review and Continuous Improvement

Taking the time to review your job description carefully and regularly updating it will help you attract better candidates. You want your description to be clear and reflect the role as it evolves.

Proofreading for Clarity

Read your job description slowly and out loud. This helps catch confusing phrases or awkward wording. Ensure every sentence clearly explains the job duties, requirements, and benefits without extra fluff. 

Check for consistent formatting, such as bullet points, headers, and font styles. A clear structure makes it easier for candidates to scan and understand key information quickly. Ask a colleague or friend to review it, too. 

Fresh eyes spot mistakes or unclear parts you might miss. Fix grammar and spelling errors to keep your company’s image professional and trustworthy.

Updating Descriptions Based on Feedback

After posting, collect feedback from applicants or your hiring team. Are candidates asking the same questions? Do they seem confused by any part? Use this feedback to refine your description. 

Update the requirements or responsibilities if the original wording does not accurately reflect the actual needs. Highlight popular benefits or perks if they aren’t obvious. Regularly revisiting your remote job descriptions demonstrates your commitment to accuracy and candidate experience. It also helps you keep pace with changes in remote work trends and your company’s growth.

Final Thoughts


Writing a strong remote job description is more than filling a vacancy; it’s about attracting the people who’ll help your company thrive. When your listing is clear, inclusive, and transparent, you don’t just get more applicants, you get the right ones. Highlight what makes your team special, communicate expectations honestly, and showcase the benefits of working remotely.


At We Work Remotely, we’ve seen that clear, thoughtful job postings consistently attract top global talent.


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Post your next remote job on We Work Remotely, and connect with millions of skilled professionals who are already looking for their next remote opportunity.


Frequently Asked Questions

Writing a clear and attractive remote job description means including precise details about the role, expectations, and company culture. You also want to avoid common mistakes and communicate responsibilities in a way that fits a remote work setting.

What are the key components to include in a remote job description?

Be sure to include the job title, detailed responsibilities, required skills, and qualifications. Explain the remote setup clearly, specifying whether it is fully remote, hybrid, or flexible hours. Add information about the tools and technology candidates will use.

How can I create a job description that appeals to remote candidates?

Highlight flexibility, work-life balance, and the chance to join a global team. Use positive language about your remote culture. Clearly communicate how your company supports remote employees and provides growth opportunities.

What are the best practices for highlighting remote work culture in a job description?

Share how your company communicates, collaborates, and supports team members. Mention regular check-ins, virtual events, or learning resources. Demonstrate how your culture enables people to succeed regardless of their workplace.

How should I describe the remote work expectations in a job listing?

Be clear about your work hours, availability, and preferred communication methods. Explain how you track progress and handle meetings. Candidates should understand what "working remotely" entails on a day-to-day basis at your company.

What common mistakes should I avoid when writing remote job descriptions?

Avoid vague language or unclear expectations. Don’t forget to explain tech needs or time zone considerations. Steer clear of overly long descriptions that can overwhelm readers.

How can I effectively communicate job responsibilities in a remote setting?

Use clear and specific language when describing tasks and goals. Break down duties into manageable parts. Explain how employees will report progress. Clarify with whom they will collaborate.




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