Networking is a valuable skill to acquire for anyone desiring a career in international development. This is particularly true for job applicants to the United Nations system.

 A key to finding a job in ANY profession

Networking is a long-term strategy. It takes months, even years, not days or weeks.

Networking sometimes has negative connotations ‘It’s not what you know, it’s who you know’ and ‘the old boys’ network’.

Effective networking however is NOT about begging for favours and/or about selfishly looking after your own interests and pursuing your own agenda; effective networking is a two-way process!

And effective networkers are more likely to be offered opportunities!

UCCs research shows that various studies confirm that professional networks lead to:

Broader and Deeper Knowledge:

• Access to new and valuable information;

• New perspectives and ideas to help you in your potential future role;

• New insights that you may not have otherwise thought of.

More job opportunities

• Opening doors to new opportunities for career advancement and personal growth

Your profile being raised

• Getting noticed and remembered;

• Keeping you top-of-mind when opportunities such as job openings arise and increases your likelihood of receiving introductions to potentially relevant people or even a referral.

While you cannot become an extravert overnight and all of a sudden a networking fan or naturally gifted in networking, research has shown that it is possible to shift your mindset so that you see networking as an opportunity for chances and learning rather than a necessary evil.

Everyone can choose which motivational focus to bring to networking. Concentrate on the positives—ask yourself how is networking going to help me to boost the knowledge and skills that are needed in your job?

Some tips on how to make the shift:

• Think about how your interests and goals align with those of people you meet.

• Make sure your networking is driven by shared interests, this way it will feel more authentic.

• And most importantly, people will appreciate those who understand their values

  -> make yourself familiar with the UN core values; the shared principles and beliefs underpinning work of organization, and guiding actions and behaviours of staff.

Curious to learn more on how to kickstart your international career?

The United Career Coalition (UCC) gives you the unique chance to learn from UN insiders what you need to kickstart your international dream career!

Watch UCCs 60min webinar series with UCC's special guests, UN experts and NOBEL PEACE PRIZE WINNERs who share their stories, tips and secrets.

Get advice which UN system roles are the right fit for you! Understand why being adaptable and focusing on transferrable skills is key and get tips & tricks on how to tailor your application documents and LinkedIn profile towards your desired international career.

Learn about mistakes to avoid, common misconceptions and why UCC thinks what may seem like tricky times may very well be an opportunity in the making!

The full 60min webinar can be downloaded on UCC’s website webinar on demand page!