The pandemic-era shift to hybrid working and event models continues to affect how development professionals build their networks. But opportunities to connect with others working in our sector persist.
In this edition of Career Hub, I’m sharing expert tips on how to make the most of your networking efforts, whether they take place online or in-person. I’m also digging deeper into the idea of soft skills that we explored in last week’s email by curating the top five tips from recruiters and staff. Plus, explore job opportunities at the U.N. Office for Project Services, the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency, and more.
P.S. — A heads up that we’re offering a very special Cyber Monday discount of 75% off new annual Career Account memberships. It’s a great opportunity to open up full access to over 6,500 exclusive global development jobs, expert career advice, members-only events, and much more.
Emergency Management Specialist
Federal Emergency Management Agency
Remote
Environment Specialist - Private Sector
Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank
China
Project Management Support Associate
United Nations Office for Project Services
Pakistan
Associate Director - Access Program
FHI 360
Remote
In highly competitive job markets like global development, many positions are filled before they even get advertised. This is one reason why networking is critical, but it isn’t something you do only when you are actively looking for a job. Here, career coaches and development professionals share thoughts on how to get more out of your networking efforts.
“How you interact with everyone matters. You never know who from your network … where they might end up and how they might keep you in mind or think fondly of a conversation they had with you.” — Lena Alfi, chief development officer, Malala Fund
“I’ve been working professionally for over 20 years and I’m still in touch with the people I went to elementary school … You just never know how the people that you've known over time might become important to you professionally in the future, that's why it's important to just always take care of your relationships.” — Caroline Korda Poole, career coach, Centered Career
“You should not ... ask, ‘Can I have a job?’ But demonstrate that you have sound deep technical knowledge in an area, that you are thinking strategically, that you can conceptualize — that’s the type of engagement [that works].” — Lykke Andersen, chief of talent acquisition and people programs, UNDP
“Networking is based on [saying] ‘Do I have something to share’ [and to not] miss an opportunity to share an article, to share an idea, to share a proposal [and say] ‘Can we do something together.’” — Roberto Amorosino, career coach
Watch: How to network successfully online
Focus on: How to land a job with UNDP
Positive problem solving and understanding diversity and culture are some of the key attributes top recruiters and working professionals recommend development agencies are looking for.
Read: 5 soft skills that can give job seekers an edge
Strategic Communications Senior Associate
Independent philanthropic initiative
Belgium
Consultant: Support Services to Conduct External Project Evaluation
German civil society organization
Worldwide
Operations Specialist
Nonprofit organization
United Kingdom | Belgium
National Engagement and Mobilization Manager
Nonprofit education advocacy organization
United States
“Time management is critical. You have to be self-aware, understand what your role is and what you should delegate, and with that of course comes the need to be able to trust and build strong relationships.”
— Safeena Husain, founder, Educate GirlsHusain shares her advice for starting a nonprofit, knowing when to delegate, and staying true to the mission.