Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) are not an easy alternative to private or public sector bodies: they demand the same high standards and the same professional approach that go with the equivalent job description elsewhere. Specifically, NGOs need a very clearly-defined set of skills that are not otherwise available to their clients.
Over and above an ability to do the job, they will expect candidates to demonstrate a level of interest and commitment to the specific areas in which the NGO operates. One essential strategy for this is to establish a networking presence within a chosen field, bearing in mind that the purpose is to learn and build knowledge of the sector rather than sell anything.
Conferences will provide potential contacts, just control the urge to sell, since the core business of an NGO is to deliver a service rather than sell a product, even if your skills are well-suited to delivering that service. Because of the smaller numbers in the NGO sector, good inter-personal skills are essential.
Bear in mind, too, that if invited for interview there is a good chance of meeting people you will already have met – or know – across the table. More to the point, there is a high probability that your interview panel will include people who know your contacts, too, possibly for many years.
Their questions will seek to probe the extent and scope of a candidate’s ability to do the specific tasks required, since delivering certain skills is the purpose of the post. Aptitude tests can be expected to be rigorous, since candidates will need the ability to achieve targets with minimal external support and potentially under adverse conditions.
Commitment and dedication will be assumed: competence and independent decision-making will be tested to the full. Candidates will find it
worthwhile to highlight any relevant articles or blogs they may have published in the sector concerned, since these will help to confirm an understanding of
the clients’ needs. Ensure that such material can be supported with external references and sources, as appropriate, since it is written evidence of expertise in a subject that the NGO will know thoroughly.
Just as an NGO can more demanding than the equivalent private or government sector post, it offers rewards that are simply not found elsewhere. Some of these are simply priceless.
If you would like more information about our Public Sector, Government and NGO recruitment services, please call Bashir Khan on
0208 757 5600 or use the contact page.
