By Frank Ojwang
Since Covid-19 unraveled the new normal, remote work has opened up a wide range of job opportunities that are perfect for university students and eventually, university graduates. Whether you’re looking for extra income, gaining early exposure to the professional world, or simply wanting to earn money while studying or managing your transition into the workforce, remote jobs offer a flexible and practical solution. Young people are already earning in Kenya and across the world.
Many remote job opportunities do not require specialized degrees or years of experience. Jobs like Virtual Assistant, Customer Service Representative, and Call Center Agents are ideal for those with a high school-level education and a willingness to learn. However, while these jobs may seem simple, they do require a certain level of skill, smartness, and resourcefulness to execute successfully.
For instance, a Virtual Assistant’s role is similar to a Personal Assistant, where one is expected to perform administrative tasks like managing emails, scheduling appointments, or organizing files. These tasks may sound straightforward, but they demand good time management, organization skills, and a proactive attitude. The ability to multitask efficiently and communicate clearly with various stakeholders is critical.
Remote work positions may seem simple on paper, but to stand out, one needs to bring their A-game. He/she has to be able to execute the tasks efficiently and professionally, always requiring a proactive mindset and good communication skills, even if one is just starting out. Remember, these roles provide the perfect career starting point and opportunity to build and develop soft skills that will benefit an individual throughout their career.
One of the greatest advantages of remote work for students and recent graduates is the ability to choose their working hours. The beauty of remote work is that one can tailor their hours to suit their routine. For students (and everyone else), working evenings can be an excellent way to earn extra money without interfering with classes or other commitments. The pay for many of these jobs typically starts at around $500 (KES 64,750.00) per month, and the potential to earn more increases with experience and years of service.
To succeed in remote work, familiarity with essential tools is needed. For example, understanding how to use email, chat platforms (like Slack or Microsoft Teams), video conferencing tools (such as Zoom or Google Meet), and project management software (like Trello or Asana) will set one apart from others. These tools are commonly used in remote work environments, and having a solid understanding of them will boost your efficiency and make you more attractive to employers.
This means that adequate preparation is vital. Invest some time in learning these tools and improving your communication and persuasion skills. The better prepared you are, the more likely you are to secure a remote job and succeed in it.
