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How to get an NGO Job in United Kingdom

Sango July 12, 2023

0 117 5 minutes read

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) are organizations that are independently run and funded. They are not affiliated with the government and are often involved in humanitarian and developmental work. Working for an NGO can be a rewarding experience, as it allows you to make a difference in the world and contribute to a cause that you are passionate about. In the United Kingdom, there are many NGOs that are always on the lookout for talented individuals to join their teams. In this article, we will outline the steps you can take to get an NGO job in the United Kingdom.

Tips on How to get an NGO Job in United Kingdom

Below are some key tips and steps on how to get an NGO job in United Kingdom.

Step 1: Identify the NGOs that align with your values and interests

The first step to getting an NGO job in the United Kingdom is to identify the NGOs that align with your values and interests. There are many NGOs in the UK, each with its own mission and focus. Some NGOs focus on environmental issues, while others focus on social justice or health-related issues. Research the NGOs in your area and identify the ones that align with your values and interests.

Step 2: Gain experience and skills

NGOs are looking for individuals who have the relevant experience and skills that align with their mission and focus. Gain experience by volunteering with NGOs or other non-profit organizations. This will give you hands-on experience in the field and help you develop the skills needed to work for an NGO.

ALSO CHECK: HOW TO GET AN NGO JOB IN CAMEROON – 5 Tips + all you need to know

You can also take courses or attend seminars to gain skills in areas such as project management, fundraising, and communication.

Step 3: Build a strong network

Networking is an important part of getting an NGO job in the United Kingdom. Attend events and conferences hosted by NGOs and other non-profit organizations in your area. This will give you the opportunity to meet people who work in the field and learn about job openings. Joining professional associations or online groups related to your field of interest is also a great way to build a strong network.

Step 4: Create a strong resume and cover letter

Your resume and cover letter are your first impression with potential employers. Make sure they are professional and tailored to the NGO you are applying to. Highlight your relevant experience and skills, and explain why you are passionate about the NGO’s mission and focus.

Step 5: Apply for jobs

Once you have identified the NGOs you are interested in working for, gained relevant experience and skills, built a strong network, and created a strong resume and cover letter, it’s time to start applying for jobs. Check the websites of the NGOs you are interested in to see if they have any job openings. You can also check job boards and websites that specialize in non-profit jobs.

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Step 6: Prepare for interviews

If you are selected for an interview, it’s important to prepare thoroughly. Research the NGO and its mission and prepare questions that show your interest and knowledge. Be prepared to explain how your experience and skills align with the NGO’s mission and focus.

Step 7: Follow up

After your interview, it’s important to follow up with the NGO. Send a thank you note to the interviewer and express your continued interest in the position. This will show your professionalism and help keep you top of mind for the position.

ALSO CHECK: How to get an NGO Job in Nigeria

NGO Job Salaries in United Kingdom

NGO job salaries in the United Kingdom vary based on the organization, role, and level of experience. According to Glassdoor, the average salary for an NGO worker in the UK is around £30,000 per year. However, some NGOs pay more or less than this average. For instance, the salary for a Project Manager at Oxfam ranges from £30,000 to £45,000, while a Program Coordinator at Amnesty International UK can earn between £27,000 and £32,000. Another example is Save the Children UK, which pays its Senior Program Officer an average salary of £39,000. It’s important to note that NGO workers often earn less compared to their counterparts in the private sector, but they benefit from the opportunity to make a difference in society.

Common NGOs that Recruit in United Kingdom + Job Profiles they Usually Take

There are many NGOs that recruit in the United Kingdom, ranging from large organizations to small grassroots movements. Some of the most common NGOs that recruit in the UK include Oxfam, Save the Children, Amnesty International, Greenpeace, and Doctors Without Borders.

These NGOs offer a wide variety of job profiles, ranging from fundraising and marketing to policy advocacy and program management. Other common job profiles include research and analysis, communications and media, and fieldwork and project implementation.

Regardless of the specific job profile, successful candidates for NGO jobs in the UK typically possess strong communication skills, a passion for social justice, and relevant experience in the field. Many NGOs also prefer candidates with advanced degrees in fields such as international development, public policy, or social work.

How to Suit Yourself to an NGO Job: What not to do when applying for NGO Jobs

Working with an NGO can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but getting your foot in the door can be tough. The competition for positions can be fierce, and the application process can be lengthy and demanding. However, with the right approach and tips shown above, you can increase your chances of landing your dream job in the NGO sector. Here is another approach to it – What not to do when applying for NGO Jobs.

Now that we’ve covered what to do, let’s talk about what not to do when applying for an NGO job. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Don’t apply for roles that you’re not qualified for. This will waste your time and the organization’s time.
Don’t send generic resumes and cover letters. Tailor your application to each specific role to show that you’re a good fit for the job.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions during the interview. This shows your interest and engagement in the organization and the role.
Don’t be discouraged if you don’t get the job. Keep applying and gaining experience, and your dream NGO job will come.

Conclusion

Getting an NGO job in the United Kingdom requires dedication and hard work. By identifying the NGOs that align with your values and interests, gaining relevant experience and skills, building a strong network, creating a strong resume and cover letter, applying for jobs, preparing for interviews, and following up, you can increase your chances of landing your dream job at an NGO.