What are your chances as a MID-CAREER PROFESSIONAL without previous UN EXPERIENCE?

With the COVID19 effectively putting the world on lockdown and counties, for various reasons, cutting their funding left and right are there still any opportunities for a career within the United Nations system? And what degree and/or experience do I need to land a job with the UN?

The United Career Coalition (UCC) did some research for you and talked to recruiters in development banks, multilateral, bilateral, international, and non-governmental organizations and UN organizations.

We are happy to share that our findings show that UN system organizations recruit more than ever!

Aiming to help you spare time and frustration, UCC came up with a list of key points to keep in mind when applying for a UN role without having worked for the UN system before:

• Its important to understand that the UN is not one big employer; there are various UN organizations, specialised agencies and related agencies to the UN.

• Part of considering an alternative career is to check out job options and vacancies. Don’t apply to headquarters (HQ) vacancies only and don’t focus on the ‘big UN beasts’ only! There are various smaller UN agencies and specialized agencies to the UN in various places around the globe.
  It is rare that an external applicant with no UN experience lands a its first assignment in a UN HQ location.

• Make sure you know how to read a UN job vacancy! Though there are no standard rules or guidelines, there are some tips and tricks how to read a UN vacancy.

 UCC offers a 60min webinar available for download HERE that explains how to read a UN vacancy to ensure the UN job notice is the right fit for your experience and background as well as to explain which parts to focus on that you should reflect in your application documents.

• Ensure you have the language skills required for the role,

• The years of experience and

• The degree/education (bachelor/masters)

TIP: Don’t just apply for one role and wait

Be open to various locations and look out for ‘smaller UN agencies’. Maybe even consider short term contracts or temporary appointments to get your foot in the doors of the UN system.

Looking for ways to kickstart your international career? We share the best cover letter tips and structure for 2021! Learn how to craft a cover letter that stands out with UCCs 20 page Illustrated guide of cover letter tips

The United Career Coalition aims to share knowledge, insights, tips & advice from those that have applied, interviewed and secured United Nations system roles! 

Want to learn more on how to spot relevant skills and competencies in a UN system vacancy or the best method to convey your skills in a cover letter? Get in touch with one of our UN insiders or download UCC’s 45min cover letter webinar with tips and advice from UN insiders!

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