How people landed their first UN job: real stories and career paths
How people landed their first UN job: real stories and career paths
Breaking into the United Nations can feel like a mystery. If you’ve ever Googled “how to get a UN job” or “how to start a career with the United Nations,” you already know there are dozens of articles but few that show the real paths people actually took.
Here’s a breakdown of different profiles of professionals, UN employees and consultants who made it into the UN system — and what you can learn from their journeys.
1. 🎓 The internship route
Many UN professionals started as interns in a UN agency, often unpaid, but used the experience to build networks and prove their value.
Example: Maria, a political science graduate, interned at UNDP for six months, supported donor reporting, and volunteered to help on cross-office projects. When a temporary position opened, she was recommended by her supervisor — this led to a consultancy and later a fixed-term post.
Takeaway: If you can afford to do an internship, use it strategically:
Network internally (coffee chats with staff, attend events)
Volunteer for extra tasks to get noticed
Request a reference letter — it strengthens future P11 applications
2. The JPO (Junior Professional Officer) route
The JPO Programme is a structured way into the UN, sponsored by member states for young professionals.
Example: Daniel, 31 years of age, applied through his government’s JPO programme. He prepared by tailoring his CV with UN competency language and highlighting results. After passing the written test and competency-based interview, he landed a JPO role with ITC — which transitioned into a P-level professional post.
Takeaway:
Watch for JPO calls on your government’s MFA website
Prepare STAR answers for competency interviews
Use “UN language” in your application (e.g., “results-based management,” “planning & organizing”)
3. 🤝 networking & connections
Yes, networking matters — but not in a “who you know” way. Many professionals build connections through conferences, LinkedIn, or collaborating with UN projects in their home country.
Example: Aisha worked for an NGO that partnered with UNICEF. She built strong relationships with UN staff, stayed in touch, and later saw a consultancy posted on UN Careers. A staff contact encouraged her to apply — and she got it.
Takeaway:
Attend UN-related events (online or in person)
Follow UN professionals on LinkedIn, comment on their posts
Stay informed about upcoming calls for applications
4. 🎯 Direct Application & Persistence
Some people simply apply — over and over — until they get through the system.
Example: Luis submitted over 39 applications before being shortlisted. He refined his P11 each time, matching competencies exactly to the job description. Eventually, he passed the written test for a P2 role and was selected.
Takeaway:
Don’t get discouraged by initial rejections
Study the job description — match your experience point-by-point
Use keywords and measurable achievements
🧠 What all successful paths have in common
UN Language: Use competency-based language (“teamwork,” “client orientation,” “accountability”)
Persistence: Rejections are common — keep applying
Networking: Build genuine relationships in the sector
Flexibility: Be open to consultancies, internships, or remote opportunities
🚀 Your next step
If you’re serious about starting a UN career, head over to United Career Coalition and book a 45-minute call with a UN career expert. You’ll get personalized advice, CV/P11 tips, and answers to all your questions about how to start a UN career and land your first UN job.
📅 Schedule a 45-minute video consultation with a UN expert today and get one step closer to the international career you’re striving for.
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