International organisations are often one of many destinations that spring to mind when thinking a career in international development. Below, we cover some key tips and considerations to think about if this is an area you’d like to enter.
Refine your interest
International development is a large field, so one of the first questions you should ask to help you plan your entry route is what area of international development you are most interested in/have the most experience with. International Development encompasses a vast array of specializations, foci, and job functions. Start by questioning yourself which areas you wish to concentrate on. Are you primarily motivated to concentrate on a particular topic (such as reproductive health, education, or sanitation) or region? This will assist you in identifying and targeting iNGOs whose work and goals align with your own.
Demonstrate your interest
The key to any employment application, including those for iNGOs, is to demonstrate genuine interest in their work. Consider volunteering for a relevant cause, completing an internship or working part-time in a relevant role, function, or even as a trustee for a charity. It is essential to demonstrate or explain clearly why you would contribute value to that particular organization beyond simply wanting to assist. There is no requirement for international experience, as many development professionals value the skills acquired from working for local NGOs and the private sector.
Flexible entry points
Compared to other areas targeted by graduates, the international NGO employment landscape is relatively unstructured, with many positions requiring a one-year lead time between application and start date. Despite the fact that there may not be a large number of graduate programmes and internship programmes listed on company websites, the sector offers greater flexibility in terms of where, how, and when to enter.
Take a proactive approach
Because iNGOs don’t typically recruit in the same manner as other large organizations, you won’t typically find them conducting large recruitment campaigns or initiatives. Thus, it is essential to be resourceful and proactive! Spend time investigating prospective employers, learning about their internal team structures and keeping an eye out for entry-level positions to determine the types of candidates they typically seek. Keep abreast of their work by speaking with current employees, reading their journals, and following their social media platforms. This can be done in the months preceding your application, giving you ample time to learn and acquire knowledge.
Think local
Alumni engaging in International Development advise against overlooking the advantages of obtaining experience in local NGO settings. You will still acquire relevant skills and demonstrate your desire to work in the nonprofit sector.
Be open minded as to size and scale
Consider the advantages and disadvantages of working for a large or well-known iNGO versus a smaller organization. Consider the organization’s funding (private, public, or a combination of the two). Does the organization focus on a single thematic area (e.g., WaterAid) or several (e.g., Plan International)? Each environment offers unique opportunities, and the optimal setting for your success may depend on your personal preferences.
Get in, move across?
Students frequently inquire as to whether they should begin their careers in a distinct department. For instance, whether a student interested in working in policy should begin their career in an administrative position within their desired organization. Alumni working in the industry suggest that this is a good method to enter an organization, understand its inner functions, and obtain information about internal recruitment. However, it is essential that you use this time to network throughout the organization and that you do not remain in your initial position for too long before making a transition.
Be critically engaged
In your applications, you should demonstrate a keen interest in the industry and the organization. It is essential to go beyond a desire to assist or contribute and to engage critically with issues confronting the sector or the organization’s work.