How to get the first job in United Nations, UNDP, UNICEF and UN missions?
Getting your first job with a United Nations (UN) agency through the United Nations Volunteers (UNV) program is a strategic pathway to embark on a career within the UN system. The UNV program offers unique opportunities for professional growth and personal development, while contributing to peace and development worldwide. Here's a guide on how to leverage UNV opportunities to secure a position with a UN agency.
UN Volunteers is the easiest way to get a job in the UN system. A lot of people are applying to the United Nations in vain for years. The HR contest for United Nations is extremely competitive. It is like in a joke - to get a job in the United Nations you should have work experience in the United Nations, but how you can get this experience if you have never been selected. The United Nations uses Inspira system, which selects candidates automatically, following internal computer algorithms. This algorithm flags candidates who already have UN work experience. Therefore, if you do not have such experience you should get it. In contrast, in UN Volunteers, your internships, and voluntary work may be considered as work experience too! Previous experience as a volunteer and/or experience of another culture, (i.e. studies, volunteer work, internship) would be highly regarded.
UN Volunteers is a UN agency that uses a simplified approach to hiring people. In some cases, there will be only one interview without a written test. Why so? Firstly, because it is volunteering. UN needs volunteers around the world; it is not that you need a job. It is the UN that needs you. Secondly, is more bureaucratic - volunteers receive salary much less than UN international staff, but do not be sad. These amounts are quite good for beginners and middle management positions. How about 5000 USD per month for international experts? Or 4000 USD per month for international specialists? In addition, a good health insurance from Cigna for 200 000 USD+, training/learning possibilities, and so on. Also, it is important that UN Volunteers hires you as a volunteer for a host agency. It can be UNICEF, UNDP, OHCHR, IOM, and other UN missions. It gives you a wonderful opportunity to get experience at the UNICEF or UNDP, which is extremely good for your future career in these organizations.
Understand the UNV Program
The UNV program contributes to peace and development through volunteerism worldwide. It operates both online and on-site, providing professionals with the chance to serve in various UN agencies, countries, and areas of expertise. Understanding the scope, mission, and values of the UNV program is crucial for aligning your application with their objectives.
Eligibility and Requirements
- Age and Education: You must be at least 22 years old for national UN Volunteer assignments and at least 25 years old for international assignments. Most assignments require a university degree.
- Experience: Relevant work experience is often required. The length and specificity of experience depend on the complexity of the assignment.
- Languages: Fluency in English, French, or Spanish is essential, with additional languages beneficial depending on the assignment's location.
Find the Right Opportunity
- UNV Database: Regularly check the UNV opportunities database for positions that match your skills and interests. Sign up for alerts to stay informed about new openings.
- Special Calls: Pay attention to special calls for volunteers, which are often issued in response to emergencies or specific projects. These can be entry points into the UN system.
Application Process
- Create a Profile: The first step is to create a detailed profile on the UNV website. This profile is your CV within the UNV system; make sure it accurately reflects your skills, experiences, and areas of interest.
- Tailor Your Application: When applying for specific assignments, tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience and how it aligns with the specific needs of the assignment.
Prepare for Selection
- Interviews and Assessments: If shortlisted, you may undergo interviews or assessments. Prepare by researching the UN agency and its mandate, the country context (for international assignments), and the specific objectives of the assignment.
- Demonstrate Your Motivation: Show your genuine motivation for volunteerism and commitment to the values and goals of the UN.
Leverage the Experience
- Networking: Use your UNV assignment to build a network within the UN system. Establishing professional relationships can open doors to future employment opportunities.
- Skill Development: Take advantage of training and development opportunities during your assignment. Many UN agencies offer courses and workshops that can enhance your skills and qualifications.
- Performance Evaluation: A positive performance evaluation from your UNV assignment can be a significant asset when applying for jobs within the UN system.
Transitioning to a UN Career
- Internal Vacancies: Being on assignment gives you insight into internal vacancies and the chance to apply from within the UN system.
- Showcase Your Contribution: Highlight the impact of your volunteer work and how it has prepared you for a career within the UN in your applications and interviews.
Getting your first job with a United Nations agency through UN Volunteers (UNV) can be an excellent stepping stone towards a career with the UN. Here are the steps you need to follow:
- Understand UNV: The United Nations Volunteers program is the UN organization that promotes volunteerism to support peace and development worldwide. It allows individuals to serve as UN Volunteers, either in their own country (National UN Volunteers) or in another country (International UN Volunteers).
- Eligibility Check: Before you start your application process, ensure that you meet the basic requirements. You must be at least 18 years old, have a university degree or higher technical diploma, and have at least two years of relevant work experience. Proficiency in at least one UN working language (English, French or Spanish) is also required. Some assignments may require knowledge of other languages.
- Create a Profile: Visit the UNV website and create a profile in their database. This involves filling out details about your skills, education, and work experience. Make sure your profile is complete and up-to-date, as this will increase your chances of being selected.
- Apply for Assignments: Once your profile is ready, you can start applying for volunteer assignments that match your skills and interests. The UNV website regularly posts new assignments from different UN agencies. Read the description and requirements of each assignment carefully before applying.
- Prepare for the Interview: If your application is shortlisted, you will be invited for an interview. Make sure you understand the role and the UN agency you applied for. Be prepared to discuss your skills, experiences, and motivation for applying.
- Acceptance and Deployment: If you are selected, you will receive an offer to become a UN Volunteer. Once you accept the offer, the UNV will arrange for your travel, visa, and accommodation.
Remember, serving as a UN Volunteer is an excellent way to gain experience within the UN system, build a professional network, and demonstrate your commitment to global issues. After your volunteer assignment, you may have the opportunity to apply for full-time roles within the UN system. Good luck!
In our guide, we cover all these topics and benefits that you and your family members may get and all new upgrades that will be implemented in the UN Volunteers system from May 2023.
UN Volunteers program will give you experience that is needed to make career within the UN system. We know from experience that a lot of people, who are working in UN HQ in New York, started their career with UN Volunteers and after continuing it in the UN ahency like IOM, UNHCR, UNDP, OCHA and etc..
This guide covers all stages from registration in UN Volunteers Talent Pool to receiving a job offer and benefits for your family members.
Last but not the least - the United Nations Volunteers program gives people like you the chance to contribute to peace and development worldwide.
Your UN journey starts here!
Conclusion
Landing a job at the UN or its agencies requires a mix of relevant education, experience, strategic application, and patience. It's a competitive process, but with determination and a proactive approach to developing your skills and network, you can increase your chances of becoming part of the global effort to maintain international peace and security, protect human rights, and promote sustainable development.
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