Embarking on a career journey with the United Nations (UN) is an aspiration for many seeking to contribute to global causes and international diplomacy.
If you’re an aspiring impact sector professional, you might be thinking about working for prestigious institutions like the European Union (EU), the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), or the United Nations (UN). We’ve put together a thorough guide that emphasizes important tactics and offers helpful suggestions for submitting your first UN job application to help you navigate this competitive landscape.
Here are ten effective ways to kickstart a career in the UN:
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- Begin by researching the diverse career paths within the UN. Understand the organization’s structure, mandates, and the various agencies that align with your skills and passion.
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- Look for entry-level positions or internships that match your educational background, expertise, and interests. UN internship programs offer valuable exposure and experience.
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- Pursue degrees or certifications relevant to the UN’s areas of focus, such as international relations, law, public administration, languages, or sustainable development. Language proficiency, particularly in official UN languages, is highly beneficial.
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- Seek opportunities for international experience, such as volunteering, exchange programs, or working with NGOs, to understand global issues and diverse cultures.
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- Network with UN professionals, attend conferences, seminars, and workshops, and join UN-related groups or associations to expand your network and gain insights into the UN’s work.
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- Stay updated on global affairs, UN initiatives, and development goals by following UN publications, reports, and relevant news sources. Engage in discussions and debates on international issues.
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- Explore specialized programs like the Young Professionals Programme (YPP) or Junior Professional Officer (JPO) programs tailored for entry-level professionals seeking UN career paths.
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- Apply for entry-level positions through the UN’s official careers portal, matching your skills and qualifications with job vacancies and internship programs that align with your career goals.
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- Be prepared for rigorous selection processes. Familiarize yourself with the UN’s competency-based interviews, and if required, prepare for competitive exams like the UN’s Language Competitive Examinations.
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- The UN’s recruitment process can be competitive and lengthy. Maintain persistence, be open to diverse opportunities, and adapt to the changing needs and priorities of the UN.
You may increase your chances of landing your first UN job by constantly looking for new opportunities, taking calculated risks, being aware of potential obstacles (like quotas), using efficient application techniques (like the T-Table and CARL), and maintaining up-to-date paperwork (P11 form). Your efforts will be rewarded if you remain committed and focused on your objective.
Embarking on a career in the United Nations requires dedication, continuous learning, and a genuine commitment to global causes. Following these steps can pave the way for a rewarding and impactful career contributing to international peace, development, and humanitarian efforts.
