Imagine sending out dozens of job applications every day, unsure if anyone will ever respond. This is the reality many Africans face when trying to land their first international remote job. We had an interview session with a professional who has successfully secured his first international role and asked him to share his journey. In this edition, he reveals practical, beginner-friendly tips that will help you navigate the international job market, apply effectively, and increase your chances of landing your first remote position, even while based in Africa. Whether you’re just starting or looking to refine your strategy, this interview provides actionable insights to set you on the right path.
Note: Our guest’s identity is not revealed in this interview. We’ll use a fictional name.
Interview with Mr. A
Interviewer: Can you walk us briefly through your journey to landing your first international remote role?
Mr. A: At that time, I made it a point to apply to about 20 to 30 jobs every single day. Honestly, I think a lot of it came down to numbers; one has to be consistent. I treated sending applications almost like a full-time job. Funny enough, back then, the competition wasn’t as fierce as it is now. Before long, I started getting responses, and it was really exciting.
Interviewer: What route did you use to land your first international remote role? Was it through a job board, cold outreach, or something else?
Mr. A: Most of my applications were through LinkedIn, but I also made sure to apply directly on the company’s website. I didn’t just stop at submitting applications, I followed up by reaching out directly to the decision-makers, like my anticipated line manager or team lead, via email or LinkedIn DM. I would advise that you shouldn’t use the customer service emails on the website to get to your targeted decision makers. That process is usually not helpful. I can say that this was the personal approach that really helped me get easily noticed by recruiters.
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Interviewer: Africans often dread applying to foreign roles because of the lengthy application and interview process. How did you navigate that?
Mr. A: Hmm… I can relate to this. But honestly, it’s a numbers game. I know the process can feel long and tedious. If you’re already in Africa, there’s nothing to lose. You just have to use the right filters to find remote jobs and companies that are remote-friendly and location-agnostic. The truth is that those of us in Africa are at an advantage because there are companies that are always recruiting African talent. It’s not about applying to everything, it’s about targeting the right opportunities and making personal connections wherever you can.
Interviewer: Is there a better option than the usual application process?
Mr. A: Yes, definitely. Like I said earlier, you can apply directly on the company website, but don’t stop there. Follow up with the person who will actually be your line manager or talent acquisition manager (HR). That extra step shows initiative and keeps you on-sight. It’s competitive, yes, but it still works. And while you’re doing this, make sure your skills on your CV match up with the skills they’ve outlined that they need. Companies hire people who can hit the ground running.
Interviewer: Looking back, what would you do differently if you were starting over today, and what advice would you give someone trying to land a remote role now?
Mr. A: If I were starting over, I would focus on learning early. It’s a global competition and I need to stand out globally before I get noticed internationally. I won’t wait until the opportunity appears, I will prepare for it by getting my hands dirty in order to gain experience.
Don’t be shy to show that you deserve to be in the room. about showing that you deserve a seat at the table. My advice for anyone starting now is simple, be consistent, apply strategically, follow up directly and make sure your skills match the roles you’re going after. Sincerely, that effort will pay off.
Interviewer: What countries have you worked for and what is your tech field?
I currently in digital marketing and I’ve worked full time for brands in the UK, Ireland, United States, UAE, and Nigeria.
Interviewer: Whats your experience working for these firms?
Been good so far in terms of a wider strategic approach and better work incentives.
The Game of Numbers
When people say that finding a job or sending applications is a “game of numbers,” they mean that success often depends on persistence and volume. In other words, the more applications you submit, strategically and consistently, the higher your chances of getting noticed and landing interviews.
It doesn’t mean applying carelessly to every listing you see. It means:
- Targeting the right jobs that match your skills and goals
- Submitting applications consistently over time
- Following up with decision-makers instead of relying solely on generic submission portals
Think of it like a probability game. I mean, the more high-quality applications you put out, the greater the likelihood that one or more will lead to an opportunity. Persistence and consistency are key, it’s a numbers game, but a smart numbers game.
How to Use LinkedIn Outreach for Job Opportunities
1. Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile
Before reaching out, make sure your profile is complete and professional:
- Use a clear, professional profile photo.
- Write a compelling headline that reflects your expertise (e.g., “Digital Marketing Specialist | Helping Brands Grow Globally”).
- Craft a concise, results-focused summary. Highlight your experience and global skills.
- Include relevant work experience, skills, and projects.
2. Identify the Right People
Focus on reaching the decision-makers who are most relevant:
- Line managers, team leads, or department heads.
- Avoid generic HR or support emails for initial outreach.
- Use LinkedIn’s search filters to narrow down by company, role, or location.
3. Personalize Your Connection Requests
When sending a connection request:
- Keep it short and professional (1–2 sentences).
- Mention a specific reason for connecting, e.g., admiration for their work or interest in the company.
Example:
“Hi [Name], I admire the work your team is doing at [Company]. I’d love to connect and learn more about opportunities in [Department].”
4. Send a Thoughtful Follow-Up Message
Once connected, send a message that is concise and shows value:
- Introduce yourself briefly and mention your interest in their company.
- Highlight relevant experience or skills.
- Politely ask if they are open to discussing potential opportunities.
Example:
“Hi [Name], thank you for connecting! I’m a digital marketing professional with experience working with brands in [Countries]. I admire your team’s work at [Company] and would love to explore if there are any opportunities where I could contribute. Would you be open to a brief chat?”
5. Follow Up Strategically
- If you don’t get a response, follow up after 5–7 days.
- Keep follow-ups polite and professional.
Example:
“Hi [Name], just following up to see if you might have time for a quick conversation about potential opportunities at [Company]. I’d really appreciate any guidance you can share.”
6. Engage with Their Content
- Like, comment, or share posts from the people or companies you’re targeting.
- This increases visibility and makes your outreach more natural when you reach out directly.
7. Keep Track and Stay Consistent
- Use a simple spreadsheet or Notion board to track who you’ve contacted, connection status, and follow-up dates.
- Consistency is key, reach out regularly, but avoid spamming.
To understand Linkedin messaging better, this article will help you: Finding Clients on LinkedIn with Direct Messages
