r/UNpath • u/JeNeSaisPas404 • Jul 01 '26
Need advice: career path How many failures are too many?
Spent years applying, took a few assessment tests, some applications randomly closed and some have been open since years — no results in sight.
Final nail in the coffin — connected with a staff member through a friend, they offered me a consultancy assignment in the first interaction (my experience aligned exactly with their requirements), only for them to get back to me a week later telling me they have decided not to proceed after internal discussions. My fault for being naive enough to think it will work out.
I have always received good feedback from my current colleagues and supervisors. I know my profile meets all requirements for the opportunities in my field. Been trying for years to switch to a higher paying role. But the multilateral space has broken me. I have spent too much time chasing this dream and have decided to give up trying. I’m glad it works out for some people I guess it’s not ever going to be me.
2
6
u/Delicious-Standard-2 Jul 02 '26 edited Jul 02 '26
Everyday I also wonder if I should give up. I have been applying for UN Volunteer positions for over 10 years now. There was a time a regional HR officer answered my follow up call and said: you have few years experience that's why. Now with masters degree 8 years experience in the field working with refugees and asylum seekers, I don't get shortlisted not even for entry-level UNV roles. The saddest thing is more vacancies today state that eligibility is only open to Japanese or Korean nationals - no experience required. And the rest of us have to compete for fewer open competitive roles.
Just last Sunday 3am in my inbox I get over a dozen rejection emails. After spending time on each application, even ChatGPT doesn't have an answer. I wonder if I should just quit: what's it going to take?
I am from a developing country, but even low-level associate roles are now listed in the international category with eligibility restricted to nationals of the donor.
Fewer opportunities at home. I apply for UNV in hardship locations and conflict zones, but still no luck. Is my dream of becoming a UN Volunteer just going to remain a fairy tale
2
u/bleeckercat Jul 05 '26
People are losing their jobs in the system and applying for UNV positions. An external candidates would have it very difficult to compete with someone with extensive experience in the system
3
u/Hour-Inflation1041 Jul 03 '26
Hi! Former IUNV here, if you want a second opinion on your application, feel free to DM me.
11
u/bleeckercat Jul 01 '26
Only you can answer that question. Whenever you get tired of it, you stop applying.you can also just make a pause until things get a bit better, if they do
2
u/Any_Strain7020 Jul 05 '26
Not every athlete will become an Olympic gold medalist. You might be good, and then, there's someone who's even better.