How to get jobs in international NGOs

Question:
Recently I saw this advert for a position from one of these international NGOs. They want applicants to have five years of professional experience.

Yes, I have had some experience in volunteering and job that if merged is up to the five years they require. But I feel its still not enough. I feel my experience is local. And the professional there sounds like they want an expert with exact experience to feel the position. Nothing less.

And why are NGO’s job requirements strict? I also tried to apply to United Nations and UNICEF which I stopped halfway due to the fact requirements they need. Sometimes I feel if they will ever get people to fill the many positions in their career site for different countries.

How do I meet up?

Shehu
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Dear Shehu

1, If you are able to mop up your years of experience in volunteering job and they add up to, there is no harm in applying. At least you have met the minimum requirement. If you feel it is not enough, it may not be. But I don’t think there is any harm in applying.

2, True, professional means some level of expertise is required, but if they wanted a professor, they would have stated it there. They said 5 years’ experience and you said you have that. You’re a professional enough. I don’t see any reason why you should be scared.

3, Yes, international NGO jobs are very strict because they are international. UN, UNICEF are global bodies, no one will expect them to have low standard.

4, They will get more than enough qualified applicants for all advertised positions.

5, To meet up, get good qualifications (eg masters) and quality experience locally. This will improve your competitiveness.

All the best.

Jarus

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