Let’s be real—trying to find a genuine work-from-home job can feel like digging for treasure. Everyone says it’s out there, but all you keep finding are scams, vague listings, or jobs that aren’t quite what they promised. If that’s been your experience, you’re not alone. I’ve been there too.
Over time, I’ve discovered that landing a legit remote job isn’t just about knowing which sites to visit. It’s about how you search and what you search for. The good news is: once you know the tricks, it gets a lot easier.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through some smart strategies to help you find real, scam-free remote jobs using top job boards like LinkedIn, FlexJobs, and Indeed. I’ll also share a huge list of search keywords you can use to increase your chances—and give you some scam-avoidance tips to protect your time and energy.
It’s Not Just Where You Search, It’s How You Search
You might already know about popular job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed. Maybe you’ve even typed “work from home” into the search bar once or twice. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
The truth is, many companies describe remote jobs in different ways. Some say “telecommute,” others say “virtual office,” and some don’t use obvious language at all. That’s why you need to be creative—and strategic—when using search terms.
Smart Search Terms That Help You Find Remote Jobs
Instead of sticking to one phrase like “work from home,” try mixing things up with any of the following terms (always use quotation marks for better results):
- “work from home”
- “work at home”
- “remote”
- “remote work”
- “home-based”
- “telecommute”
- “telecommuting”
- “work remotely”
- “location: anywhere”
- “freelance” (many freelance roles are remote!)
- “virtual office”
- “this is a remote position”
- “work offsite”
- “remote location”
- “work can be done from home”
- “work may be done from home”
- “working remotely from home”
- “location: remote”
- “remote + [specific job title]” (e.g., “remote data entry”)
Experiment with these combinations across different platforms and see which ones deliver the most relevant results. You’ll quickly find a few go-to search terms that work well for your field.
Top 3 Job Boards for Remote Work Searches
1. LinkedIn
LinkedIn isn’t just for executives in suits. It’s actually a goldmine for remote job seekers—especially if you use it strategically.
Here’s how to make the most of it:
- Update your profile: Clearly state that you’re open to remote work.
- Use the “Jobs” tab: Search using keywords like “remote,” “virtual,” or “work from home.”
- Set alerts: Let LinkedIn notify you when new relevant jobs are posted.
- Connect with others: Follow people who already work remotely—they often share job leads before they hit the public listings.
Bonus Tip: Add “Remote” to your location on LinkedIn to help recruiters understand the type of roles you’re open to.
2. FlexJobs
FlexJobs is a paid platform, but for good reason. Every single listing is screened for legitimacy by their team. So you won’t have to worry about sorting through scams.
Here’s what makes FlexJobs worth it:
- You can filter by job type (freelance, full-time, part-time, etc.).
- You’ll find roles in dozens of industries, from customer service to writing, tech, and education.
- The cost is minimal: just $2.95 for 14 days of access.
FlexJobs is ideal if you’re tired of wasting time on sketchy job listings or want a more curated experience.
3. Indeed
Indeed is one of the largest job search engines out there, and it’s filled with remote opportunities—if you know how to look.
Here’s how to get started:
- In the “What” box, enter your desired job title or keywords (e.g., “customer service,” “graphic design”).
- In the “Where” box, simply type “remote.”
- You can also filter by salary range, job type, or company ratings.
Pro Tip: Use those smart search phrases we talked about earlier in the “What” field. Example: “remote + social media manager.”
Reputable Blogs and Sites That Post Remote Jobs
If you prefer sites that focus only on remote or flexible work, you’re in luck. These websites regularly update their listings with real work-from-home jobs:
- The Work at Home Woman
- Rat Race Rebellion
- We Work Remotely
- Remote OK
- Real Ways to Earn (yep, that’s me!)
These platforms are easy to navigate and often let you filter by job category, so you can quickly find roles that match your skills.
Don’t Get Scammed: Red Flags to Watch Out For
Let’s face it—scammers love desperate job seekers. So it’s super important to stay alert.
Here are a few signs a “job” might be a scam:
- They ask you to pay upfront for training, kits, or applications.
- The job promises huge pay for little work.
- The company is hard to find online or has no digital footprint.
- You’re offered a job without an interview or proper vetting.
Some legit companies may ask for a background check fee, but anything beyond that should raise eyebrows. Always research the company, read reviews, and trust your gut.
Still unsure? Keep a scam checklist handy and review each opportunity carefully.
Final Thoughts: You Can Land a Remote Job
Finding a legit work-from-home job isn’t always easy—but it is possible. With the right approach, a solid list of search terms, and the best job boards in your toolkit, you’ll save yourself a ton of time and frustration.
Be consistent. Be patient. Apply to jobs regularly and follow up when necessary.
Most importantly, don’t be afraid to connect with people already in remote roles—they’re often the best source for hidden opportunities.
Whether you’re looking for something part-time to supplement your income or hoping to fully transition into remote work, your dream job might just be a few smart searches away.
