Why Kenyans Are Losing Out on Remote VA Jobs—And How to Fix It
The Harsh Reality of VA Hiring
A hiring panel was interviewing Virtual Assistant (VA) candidates. Three Kenyans. Four Nigerians. None of the Kenyans made it.
I had a deep conversation with Bancy Kengara, a seasoned VA with five years of experience, and she broke down the uncomfortable truth: most Kenyans are unprepared for remote work.
If you’ve been struggling to secure VA jobs, here’s why—and more importantly, how to fix it.
1. Lack of Remote Work Skills
Many applicants don’t even know the basic tools required for remote work. If you can’t navigate:
- ClickUp, Slack, Trello (project management tools)
- Google Docs, Google Sheets (collaboration tools)
- CRM software like HubSpot or Zoho (client management tools)
…you’re already behind. Employers expect VAs to be tech-savvy from day one.
2. Failure to Understand Remote Work Culture
The remote workspace isn’t just about working from home—it runs on structure, communication, and efficiency. Many Kenyan job seekers apply for VA roles without understanding how global teams operate.
Remote employers value:
- Proactive communication – If they have to chase you for updates, you’re already a liability.
- Time management – Many VA jobs work across different time zones, and missing deadlines is not an option.
- Self-discipline – No one will micromanage you. You need to be self-driven.
3. Poor Personal Branding
Why did the Nigerians dominate the hiring process? They were visible and prepared.
- They showcased their expertise.
- They had certifications and industry knowledge.
- They leveraged platforms like LinkedIn to establish credibility.
Meanwhile, most Kenyan applicants rely on outdated CVs and generic applications instead of positioning themselves as valuable assets in the VA industry.
4. Using the Wrong Platforms
Many Kenyan VAs rely on low-paying job boards where competition is high, and platforms take a huge cut of earnings.
Meanwhile, those who master networking and LinkedIn positioning secure premium clients—without bidding wars.
How to Fix This and Secure High-Paying VA Jobs
✔ Upskill – Take online courses, master Google Workspace, learn project management tools, and familiarize yourself with remote collaboration software. ✔ Leverage LinkedIn – Post valuable insights, showcase your work, and build an online presence that attracts clients. ✔ Treat It Like a Business – Remote clients don’t hire job seekers; they hire problem solvers. Learn how to pitch your value effectively.
The Jobs Are There—Are You Ready?
Remote work isn’t disappearing. Virtual Assistant roles are growing every year. Clients are actively looking for skilled, reliable, and tech-savvy VAs.
The question is—are you prepared?
