Bidding adieu to the United Nations: 5 tips for your application
I started working as the social media intern in June and the end of September marks my last day at the UN. I might have concluded my internship journey, but it could be a beginning for you! For those aiming to obtain the same experience, here are some of the personal learnings I can share.
Know where to look.
Although there are a lot of vacancies for UN interns across the world, I have not seen it advertised as much (either that, or I need to sign up for new job-hunting app/ websites). For jobs at the Secretariat, the best place to look is on inspira.un.org. It gives you a complete list of internships, consultancies, and temporary and full time positions globally. In all honesty, this site might seem a bit older compared to the career sites of other institutions. But be sure to put the correct keywords, select the correct functions, be mindful of the qualifications, and be patient with your search.
Apply early.
Patience is needed not just for navigating through the website, but also for the review process. I first applied in January, heard back from them in March, got ‘pre-selected’ in April, and secured my offer in May. It’s nobody’s fault, really. I am sure everyone wants to get things done quickly, but sometimes approvals/ systems/ bureaucracy/ other this-is-out-of-our-control factors get in the way. So, manage your timeline (and expectations) wisely! Most of the job openings are recruiting on a rolling basis. If you are looking to secure internship in the Summer, you might want to start applying in Fall.
The application process is short and sweet.
No, really. If you have your CV/ resume ready, it might just be a matter of copy and paste-ing your details into the portal. One of the brain-crunching parts for me is the cover/ motivation letter. Indeed, that is one of the most — if not the most — crucial part of job application. Although the rest of the required items seem ‘easy’, be sure to spend time to write one heck of a story. Use the key words that match your job application, deliver concrete examples rather than claims, show your trust and passion for the organization’s cause, and structure your story well. Cross your fingers that your hiring manager will be touched when reading it!
Nailing your interview.
I could only speak of my own experience. I have the BEST supervisor and I found him very welcoming and friendly from the beginning. I was on a holiday and had to do the interview at a coffee shop with (understandably) unstable Wi-Fi. When we got disconnected mid way (or when there’s that notorious “can you hear me?” or “I lost you for a second”), he was very understanding and our chat continued with no bad blood. I guess what matters the most is — on top of having your notes of the list of relevant experience and concrete results opened on the right side of your screen — treat the interview like a conversation with a human being. Ask them how they’re doing. Show your enthusiasm. Give the ‘human’ (not the automated answering machine) answers. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Prepare your documents!
After your hiring manager decides that they like you, you probably still need to go through the administrative process. If you are an international student like me, this process is going to be a memorable one… if you know what I mean. They’re going to need see your valid visa, health insurance that can cover you throughout the term of your internship, academic permit/ authorization, enrollment status, medical certificate, all those things. This means working closely to your academic advisor, international office, primary care, and ultimately your hiring manager. I hope this process does not get in the way as much as it did mine.
There you go, I hope these are somewhat helpful for you. Hope you have a smooth application process and fruitful result! :)
