I would really like to get into the field of international development, but my applications are being rejected.

Cheryl-Anne

October 24,2023 at 2:09PM UTC

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I would really like to get into the field of international development, but my applications are being rejected.

I have a masters degree in public policy and administration, an honours degree in International Relations and an undergraduate degree in political studies and governance.

I have extensive work experience in the field of strategic intelligence and management consulting.

I have a couple of applications under review with UNESCO for their mid-level professional programme ( but their entire process takes long anyway.)

I have applied for other positions in the international development field, but I am either being rejected or just not getting any interviews.

Please if anyone knows of positions available in the international development affairs field or people they can refer me too , to get my foot in the door, please let me know.

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AnonymousOctober 24,2023 at 2:11PM UTC
Following bc Im interested in the field as well.
AnonymousOctober 24,2023 at 7:55PM UTC
Hi, I have a Master's in International Relations and spent some of my classes in UN sessions.
The reason I stayed with corporate afterward is the fact that while every job is about WHO you know, not WHAT you know, politics takes it to the extreme.
When I found out I would have to compete with people who were A) Geniuses who spoke ten languages and could do calculus in their heads, or B) Idiots who were in the same fraternity as Somebody Important, I gave it up.
That doesn't mean you have to give up! If you really want to stay in international development, follow the money. Go after the sponsors. Find a job in a company that supports ventures in developing companies, and network the heck out of it. Since you have strategic intelligence and management consulting experience, go after those contacts first.
You need to know people in high places. End of story.
Cheryl-AnneOctober 26,2023 at 9:23AM UTC
True that, its more about who you know nowadays than anything.
Interesting about going after the sponsors , I actually never thought about that.
Thanks, I shall try that.
AnonymousOctober 25,2023 at 12:31PM UTC
You need to build a very good network for these positions. Start connecting with people through LinkedIn, ask people who are working in positions you would like or at the program manager/director level for a 20-minute call/zoom/teams meeting. And just keep at it. Ask people for introductions and/or suggestions on who you can connect with. You could also try to get a contracting position to get your foot in the door. Not sure about UNESCO but I know other UN agencies always have RFPs out there for short and mid-term contracting work. If you are close enough to DC or NYC keep your eye out for conferences or events you can attend to make connections and build your network. Finally, look into NGOs or contractors who work with these organizations, there may be something there for you that could be a bridge to where you want to be. Just keep at it and stay positive. You will get there. Good Luck!
Cheryl-AnneOctober 26,2023 at 9:20AM UTC
Thanks for the advice, I shall do that.