4 ways you can increase your chances to be shortlisted for a UN job

When you apply for a UN job, the aim of your application is to get you to the next step in the selection process, which is normally a written assessment or an interview. The UN job market is highly competitive, with hundreds of applicants for each position, but there are some ways you can improve your chances to be selected for that interview.

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1. Make sure to customize your application to the job you are applying for.

Edit your duties by using the key buzzwords used in the job description. This way it is more likely that your application will be screened in by the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) or during the manual screening. This shouldn’t mean a complete re-writing of your applicant profile, just minor editing, to make sure that you fit the job, and of course, you should be honest about everything you put there.

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2.???Take time with your application.

UN applications can be time-consuming, and nerve-wracking at times, so it's better to dedicate the necessary time to the process than just rushing through it. Address every part of the role and criteria. Some recruitment systems do not function very well, and you have to adjust your records manually. Some UN organizations still require a completed P-11 (their own CV form): do it. Take the time and make sure that your application is accurate and complete. Incomplete profiles are usually not considered, even if you uploaded your CV, so its worth it. In most UN organizations recruiters work with online profiles, and not with CVs, because based on the elements you record the system creates a standardized CV format with all the elements needed. Double-check for spelling mistakes, too.

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3.???Make sure you meet ALL of the minimum requirements.

Sometimes these requirements are mentioned in the job description as “required”. Since this selection criteria is minimum, it will be used as a benchmark to shortlist people, and you will be automatically screened out if you do not meet them in your applicant profile. Do not waste your time if you do not meet those criteria. There are some other requirements that are mentioned as “desirable” – you could still be considered if you do not meet these.

?4.???Be structured, well organized and highlight your achievements

Don’t use different formats, be consistent throughout your application. The preferred way of listing your work history is by using 5-10 bullet points. No need to write full sentences. Instead use “action words” such as Established, Led, Organized, Directed, Advised etc. In this website you can find 185 of them:?https://lnkd.in/ektQeJda

As an example: “Managed and resolved complex HR processes related to off-boarding”.

Judit Toth

UN Career Development Coach

fiverr.com/judittoth409

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