So you want to work for the UN? That sounds like a reality show doesn’t it? With the amount of interest in UN jobs, a reality show could actually be possible. Whether it’s the prestige of working at one of the most well-known organizations in the world, the chance to tackle some of the most pressing issues of our time, or the great pay and perks, UN jobs are in high demand.
I’m sure you’ve guessed that these jobs are highly competitive. You’d be right. But that doesn’t mean you should give up on your dreams. We’re here to walk you through the process and give you tips and tools to increase your chances of getting an interview and hopefully getting hired.
Who You Know Helps, But Merit Counts More
First, to clear some commonly held misconceptions, you don’t need to know “the right person” to get your application seen. We talked to people who applied after seeing ads in a newspaper with no contacts and because of the strength of their application, they were hired.
As Leonard* notes, “Jobs are on merit. As long as you have the right qualifications and experience [and] you pass the interviews, you get the job.” So don’t stress about the whole “it’s not what you know, it’s who you know” adage — it doesn’t always apply.
Customization Is Your Friend
As for the application itself? Unlike other job postings that require a CV and cover letter, the UN uses a P-11 form that helps the applicant highlight all their skills and experiences relevant to the job. Make sure you’re listing strengths that are in line with the job you’re applying for. Just re-read the required skills in the job description and make sure what you’ve listed aligns with them. It’s not a one-size-fits-all application process, so make sure to customize your answers to each opening.
That Second Degree Can Help
In addition, the UN looks out for core competencies, such as: Communication, Teamwork, Planning & Organizing, Accountability, Creativity, Client Orientation, Commitment to Continuous Learning, and Technological Awareness. Each job posting will list a few of these, so make sure to play up your matching strengths in the application.
If you’re still planning out your career, note that post-graduate work, such as a master’s degree or PhD will likely get your application a second look.
Know Why The UN Is Your Next Step
One of the people we spoke with took a measured approach to his application, and it paid off. After working for a private audit and accountancy firm for about six years, he was ready to take the next step to a bigger organization to diversify his career portfolio and experience.
What about you? Have you thought about how working for the UN can be the logical next step for your career? Think through this carefully and establish why the UN is the perfect career move for you. Once you know it yourself, it’s much easier to convince a hiring manager of the same. Some people have applied to every vacancy out of desperation. It shows. Be strategic!
Be Patient: It’s A Waiting Game
Once you submit your P-11, move on to the next job application. Find something else to occupy your mind and don’t refresh your inbox every two minutes; it can take months before you hear back. In fact Henry*, who’s been with the UN for four years now, told us that when he got the call to attend the first interview, he had forgotten he’d even applied! All in all, it was six months from his application submission to his first day on the job. So be patient.
Know Your Core Competencies Inside and Out
I mentioned a first interview; depending on the position, you can expect some combination of a written interview and an oral interview. One of the people we spoke with sat for an hour-long technical test, and then after two weeks, he was invited for a 45-minute competency-based interview.
In the competency interviews, it is important to identify concrete examples in your professional history that show how you’ve demonstrated each one. Before the interview, identify one or two examples that match each competency on the job posting. Practice talking about them to a friend or in front of the mirror. It’ll give you an upper hand on the interviews.
If you get through the interviews, you can expect two or three weeks more of medical checks, security clearances, and training before your first day on the job.
Hopefully we’ve demystified the process for you. We wish you all the best with getting that UN job of your dreams!
*Names have been changed for privacy.
Teesa is the Communications Associate at Akilah Institute for Women in Kigali, Rwanda.
