Originally shared via email. For early access to UN job search success tips and advice, subscribe to the newsletter here.

Today, I'm answering another question from you all. This one's from Lucy and touches upon the importance of titles in UN applications: Do hiring managers even look further into applications if they don't see titles that are similar to the roles they're hiring for?

In short, titles can serve as quick indicators of your experience, particularly in structured environments like the UN, where titles follow a specific nomenclature.

However, if you're moving across sectors, you'd have to be quite far off for screeners to count you out based on titles only. What truly matters are the descriptions of your duties. Titles vary widely in meaning. Just consider how differently the title "Secretary" can be interpreted - a task-oriented support role, or a government official with extensive responsibilities.

What is helpful, is if your titles reflect a similar level of seniority or thematic expertise as is expected in the positions you're applying for.

In essence, don't worry about titles, which we can't really change anyway. Instead, ensure your experience and transferable skills shine through in the descriptions. That's where you'll show the relevance of your candidature.

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Remember, patience is key when it comes to UN job search success. The recruitment processes take more time than most of us find reasonable. A consistent flow of applications, even a slow trickle, is the way to go 🖥️🤩📄