Tip 1: Show your skills!
When you’re applying for a job or internship, you of course want to show all the things that you have done during your studies. However, keep in mind that just your degree isn’t going to get you that far. Most applicants have similar degrees. Try to show what you can do that others can’t! Humanitarian organizations always appreciate it when you speak a unique language, when you have done some volunteering or when you have a unique skill set that could be a great asset to them.

Tip 2: Start small
Of course, many people want to have a decent function in large international organizations. But to get there, it is necessary to have some experience already. Look for local organizations in your surroundings where you can start your humanitarian career.

Tip 3: Network, network, network
Knowing people in the humanitarian sector is the best way to enter and develop yourself in the humanitarian field. It does not only increase your chances of finding new work, but it also creates a new way of finding information that is relevant for your development.  

Tip 4: Look at something else than full-time positions
It might prove useful to start with a side job or a part-time volunteering experience to gain a better understanding of the humanitarian context and to see whether or not the humanitarian sector is something for you. Many organizations are looking for part-time volunteers, whether it is for a few hours a week or a temporary position. This is a great place to start and can lead to paid positions later on. 

Tip 5: Network.
Yes we know we said it already, but we meant it ;) 

Tip 6: Just start
It is difficult to get an overview of the whole sector before you experience it yourself. The amount of organizations is huge and they all focus on different goals, ranging from fighting climate change to child poverty. It is difficult to get a clear overview of what they do. Just start with something that you are passionate about, and feel free to try out different opportunities to really get a taste of what it is like!

Tip 7: Be willing to deal with bureaucracy
Yes, this is unfortunately a big part of the humanitarian sector. Especially within large, international organizations, the decision-making process can be long. If you want to avoid this, try to look at local organizations and organizations that have a fast decision-making process. 

Tip 8: Apply even when you don’t meet all the criteria
Nowadays organizations are looking for 20-year-olds with 30 years of experience. The list of requirements is endless, and the perfect candidate does not exist. If you don’t meet all the criteria, just apply and make sure to show why you would be a good candidate by focussing on the criteria you do meet. A lot of training is done on the job, so don't let the unrealistic requirements hold you back.

Tip 9: Don’t focus solely on the top jobs in New York or Genéva
Of course, it is always good to aim high. So if you feel like it, we definitely recommend you to aim as high as possible. However, keep in mind that popular functions in New York or Genéva attract many applicants, and therefore chances of getting in are relatively low. Don’t get demotivated if you get declined or don’t even get a reply to your application.

Tip 10: Be yourself
It might sound cliche, but it is true. Many people try to come across as someone else during their interviews. Don’t do this. Most interviewers will see right through you. Be honest about your bad qualities when asked about them, and don’t say things like “sometimes I just work too hard and my private life suffers from it” if this isn’t true for you. They would rather hear you talk about the personal flaws that you are eager to improve.