Field notes
How the international system actually hires — written for the candidate who is willing to do the work but has nobody inside to ask. No paywalls, no fluff.
How the UN system actually hires: staff categories and grades, contract types, where vacancies are posted, the real selection pipeline, rosters, languages and a realistic strategy for your first post.
The system · 18 min
The UN competency framework explained, the STAR method with two fully worked answers, how panels score against behavioural indicators, and how to build an evidence bank before interview day.
Interviews · 12 min
Why the PHP (the old P11) matters more than your CV in UN screening, a section-by-section walkthrough, how screeners read it, the common disqualifiers, and how to keep a master profile.
Applications · 10 min
CV norms outside the UN system — length, impact bullets, tailoring by organization type, motivation letters, EPSO-style competitions, applicant tracking systems and how a portfolio link sets you apart.
Applications · 10 min
Every realistic entry door into international organizations — internships, UN Volunteers, the JPO programme, the YPP exam, consultancies and the NGO-first route — with a 24-month plan.
Early career · 12 min
Why hiring panels respond to seeing a person, what to say in 90 seconds, how to record it well with the equipment you already own, what to avoid, and where to share the link.
Stand out · 8 min
The vacancies are on the board, and your page takes minutes to start.