The landscape of work has transformed dramatically since COVID-19, with the pandemic accelerating the shift towards remote working. According to PwC research, 78% of UK businesses adopted remote working during the pandemic, and many have maintained this flexibility. I’ve noticed more people than ever are seeking these arrangements, and from what I’ve seen, the surge in remote jobs has opened up countless opportunities for those looking to work from the comfort of their homes.
The Rise of Working From Home in the UK
According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), 38% of working adults reported working from home at some point during 2023, showcasing a significant shift in how we approach work. This trend of remote jobs continues to grow, particularly in sectors like technology, customer service, and digital marketing.
Starting Your Remote Career Without Experience
I think one of the most common questions is what jobs can I do from home with no experience in the UK? For those just starting out, several roles are particularly welcoming to newcomers: Here are some of the most accessible positions for those starting their remote working journey:
- Virtual Assistant – Supporting businesses with administrative tasks, email management, and calendar organisation. This role typically offers flexible hours and the opportunity to work with multiple clients.
- Customer Service Representative – Helping customers via phone, email, or chat platforms. Many UK companies now operate their entire customer service departments remotely.
- Content Writer – Creating blog posts, articles, and social media content for businesses across various industries.
Several UK job boards make it easy to find remote positions. Reed.co.uk offers a dedicated ‘work from home’ filter in their search options, which helps identify genuine remote opportunities. Other reliable platforms include:
- Indeed UK – Use the ‘remote’ filter and keywords like ‘entry level remote’ or ‘work from home no experience’
- CV-Library – Features a ‘home working’ filter and regularly posts entry-level remote positions
- LinkedIn – Set your job preferences to ‘remote only’ and use their ‘entry level’ experience filter
When searching these platforms, try different keyword combinations like ‘remote’, ‘work from home’, or ‘hybrid working’ to ensure you don’t miss any opportunities. It’s also worth setting up job alerts with these filters to stay updated about new positions.
Essential Skills for Remote Success
The Federation of Small Businesses reports that 60% of UK companies value digital skills more than ever before. Consider these fundamental areas:
- Digital literacy – Understanding basic software and online tools, including project management platforms and communication software
- Time management – Creating structured workdays at home, setting boundaries, and maintaining productivity
- Communication – Mastering virtual collaboration, written communication, and remote team dynamics
Preparing for Working From Home Jobs
Just as a chef needs their knives, remote workers need the right tools and knowledge. Many successful remote workers enhance their skills through career courses, which provide structured learning paths for specific remote roles. These courses often cover industry-specific software, remote work best practices, and professional development strategies.
Setting Up Your Home Office
Working from home is like having your own small business headquarters. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) suggests that 82% of remote workers perform better with a dedicated workspace. Here’s what to consider:
- Ergonomic setup – Proper chair, desk height, and monitor position to prevent strain and maintain long-term health
- Reliable internet connection – Essential for all remote jobs, with recommended minimum speeds of 50Mbps for video conferencing
- Professional background – Clean space for video calls and proper lighting for professional presentation
Industry-Specific Remote Opportunities
Different sectors offer varying levels of remote work potential. Recent data from LinkedIn UK shows particularly strong growth in these areas:
Technology Sector
The tech industry leads the way in remote work adoption. Software development, IT support, and cybersecurity roles frequently offer work from home options. According to TechNation’s 2023 report, over 65% of UK tech companies now offer permanent remote working options.
Digital Marketing
This field has seen remarkable growth in remote positions. Social media management, SEO specialisation, and digital advertising roles often operate entirely remotely. The Interactive Media in Retail Group (IMRG) reports that demand for remote digital marketing professionals increased by 40% since 2020.
Financial Services
Many financial roles have successfully transitioned to remote work, including accounting, bookkeeping, and financial analysis positions. The Financial Conduct Authority now supports remote working models, leading to increased opportunities in this sector.
Maintaining Work-Life Balance
Remote work requires a different approach to maintaining professional boundaries. Mental health charity Mind UK emphasises the importance of creating routines and designated workspaces when working from home. This might include setting specific work hours, taking regular breaks, and maintaining social connections through virtual channels.
Helpful Tips for Remote Job Seekers
For additional guidance on finding legitimate remote opportunities, visit the UK Government’s National Careers Service website, which offers valuable resources and job search strategies. They provide updated information about emerging remote work opportunities and sector-specific guidance.
Future of Remote Work
The latest research from McKinsey suggests that 20% of workdays will continue to be remote in the UK post-pandemic. The Institute of Directors reports that 74% of business leaders plan to maintain increased remote working in their organisations, indicating sustained growth in work from home job opportunities.
Whether you’re looking to switch careers or start your professional journey, the remote working landscape offers numerous possibilities. With proper preparation and the right skills, you can build a successful career from home that aligns with both your professional goals and personal lifestyle preferences.