Ask Devex: How to break into the global development sector

Devex’s own Katrina Gaw, who leads CV writing and cover letter projects on our talent solutions team, hosted this month’s event, sharing her insights on CV length, career gaps, and how and when to follow up on a job application. Here are just a few takeaways from the webinar. Other topics covered in the webinar included the use of keywords in your CV and online profile, how to present certificates and nondegree trainings, and when and where to provide professional references. Looking to break into the sector: Target HQ or home office roles Those who are new to the sector — recent graduates or those transitioning — often find the biggest challenge to securing a job in global development is gaining that initial experience employers look for. Not to mention experience working overseas. Headquarter and home office roles can be a good entry point, Gaw said. The nature of these roles — program support, finance, communications, marketing, fundraising, project management — are less likely to require previous development experience. This is a great way to build your knowledge across different areas of work. Voluntary work can also be a good way to gain overseas experience, however, look for opportunities that allow you to learn and develop skills useful to your future global development career, Gaw advised. Make a connection through informational interviews Some employers are responsive to unsolicited applications or expressions of interest, even when there are no job openings. Unlike submitting a job application, an informational interview is not about presenting your fit to a specific vacancy, Gaw explained. Part of the objective is making genuine connections with the people working in the organization or field of interest. “These interactions tend to be less successful if you treat [them] as a job interview and only talk about your own career,” Gaw said. Instead, treat it as a conversation to learn from the other person professionally, she added. Building your network can also give you a competitive advantage when it comes to future job openings or consulting opportunities that are not advertised. Career switchers: Translate your experience Whether transitioning from another sector — such as banking, business, or journalism — or looking to switch focus within global development, it is important to effectively translate existing experience. There are many keywords and phrases specific to the global development sector that recruiters and hiring managers look for when reviewing applications. Talk about your experience in a way that demonstrates how your skills are transferable to the sector. Highlighting your specific country experience and development networks can also be valuable. Seasoned professionals: Look for consulting opportunities There can be a perceived age bias when it comes to global development hiring. Some organizations have mandatory retirement policies that seem to favor younger job seekers. Seasoned professionals should consider how their professional experience and trainings are presented in their CV — highlight those that are most recent and show off certain skills, Gaw advised. It is also fine to not include your much earlier experience, she added. There are opportunities for more seasoned professionals to serve as consultants, or on expert rosters. Since many consulting opportunities are not advertised, stay connected with your professional network to find out about up-and-coming proposals and projects. Tune in to this month’s Ask Devex to find out more about the use of keywords in a CV and online profile, how to present certificates and nondegree trainings, and when and where to provide professional references.