Remote Jobs Are Shrinking — Here’s How to Compete in 2025

During the pandemic, remote work exploded. Job seekers got used to flexibility, no commute, and the freedom to work from anywhere. But in 2025, the landscape looks very different.

According to the Associated Press, only 9% of paid U.S. job postings on LinkedIn in July offered remote work, yet those listings attracted a staggering 37% of all applications. That means demand for remote jobs is far outpacing supply and competition is fierce.

So how can you still land a remote role in today’s climate? Here are strategies backed by expert advice (and a few tips I give my own clients).

1. Prove You Can Work Independently

One of the biggest employer concerns with remote work is accountability. As the AP notes, autonomy, time management, and independence are critical.

How to show this on your resume/LinkedIn:

• Highlight past remote experience clearly (e.g., “Successfully worked remotely for 3 years using Slack, Zoom, and Microsoft Teams”).

• Emphasize results over tasks (e.g., “Delivered projects 2 weeks early while managing competing priorities independently”).

• Call out collaboration tools you’ve mastered.

2. Stick to What You Know

Switching careers and going remote at the same time can be an uphill battle. Experts suggest pursuing remote opportunities that are similar to your current or most recent role. This gets your foot in the door before you attempt a bigger pivot.

My advice: Don’t stretch your applications too thin. Apply to remote roles that closely match your skills, and once you’re in, you can grow into new directions.

3. Explore Remote Options in Your Current Role

Sometimes the fastest path to remote work isn’t a new job, it’s negotiating your current one. The AP highlights stories of professionals who successfully converted their existing roles into remote positions, sometimes with tradeoffs like contractor status.

Tip: Frame it as a productivity and retention win for your employer. Emphasize reduced commute stress, fewer sick days, and uninterrupted focus.

4. Target Industries Where Remote Work Is Growing

Remote work hasn’t disappeared — it’s just shifted. According to FlexJobs and AP reporting, the strongest fields for remote roles include:

• Full-time remote: Education, administrative support, social media, marketing, HR, product management, software development, engineering, customer service, financial services.

If you’re serious about remote work, focus your search on industries where the opportunities are still expanding.

5. Network Aggressively — Even In Person

It may sound counterintuitive, but some of the best remote opportunities still come through in-person networking. As the AP notes, attending industry events, alumni meetups, or conferences can help you make connections that eventually open remote doors.

Remember: relationships create referrals, and referrals often bypass crowded applicant pools.

Final Thoughts

Remote jobs aren’t gone , they’re just much harder to get. With only 9% of postings offering remote work but nearly 40% of candidates applying, you need to be strategic, flexible, and persistent.

By showcasing independence, sticking to your strengths, targeting the right industries, and networking intentionally, you can still land the flexibility you want.

💡 Need help highlighting your remote experience on your resume or LinkedIn? That’s where Birch Group comes in. Let’s make sure your materials stand out in the most competitive segment of the job market. Click here to schedule your Free Consultation today!

✅ Source: Associated Press — “Facing stiff competition, remote workers up their game”