A checklist for evaluating a remote offer

A remote job title can mean very different things depending on the company. Before accepting, run the offer through this checklist.

Ask whether the company is "remote-first" (built around distributed teams) or just "remote-friendly" (still office-centered). Find out how many hours of time zone overlap you're expected to keep with your team. Ask whether equipment like a laptop, monitor, and desk setup is provided or reimbursed. Find out how performance is actually measured — by outcomes, or by activity tracking. And check whether there are required in-person on-sites, and who covers the travel cost.

A role that looks remote on the surface can still come with a lot of hidden office-shaped expectations — this checklist surfaces them before you sign.