6. Mapping your background to this career area
International Development & Program Management
Economics/General Business/Finance
Related
Skills
- Experience with interpreting macro data and drawing conclusions
- Knowledge of how to analyze countries, regions and industries
- Financial expertise
- Ability to communicate efficiently to both expert and non-expert audiences
- Good writing skills
- Ability to defend economic programs
POSSIBLE MAPPING TO THIS CAREER AREA
- Evidence of experience with applying economics skills, either from the private or public sector.
- General work experience coming from a previous junior role or apprenticeship.
- Hands-on administrative skills and evidence of ability to see projects through to completion.
- International experience from living and working abroad can make a serious difference for entry into this field.
Broad Natural Sciences like Biology, Medicine, Engineering
Related
Skills
- Strong research skills and ability to apply to specific areas like environment & health issues
- Technical expertise in area like, e.g., transportation and logistics
- Strong IT skills
POSSIBLE MAPPING TO THIS CAREER AREA
- Some areas will call for specialist knowledge, often obtained academically.
- But experience gained from having carried out emergency work in a crisis zone, for example, will make the candidate stand out.
- Proven strength in project implementation.
- Soft skills gained from working across nationalities and institutions.
Business studies, Political Science, International Law
Related
Skills
- Strategic, and especially, international thinking
- Ability to understand the political, business and legal context of different programs
- Language skills are often particularly relevant in the policy area (minimum 2)
POSSIBLE MAPPING TO THIS CAREER AREA
- More policy-oriented areas of international development are often covered by professionals with a broader educational background.
- Previous experience gained by proximity to policymaking bodies and departments and demonstration of a genuine interest in the policy issues are both highly relevant.
- International experience is particularly critical in this field.
Environmental Studies and Sustainability
Related
Skills
- Data analysis
- Geographic information systems
- Life cycle assessment
- Environmental impact assessment
- Sustainable resource management
- Ethical decision-making
- Project management
- Leadership
- Critical thinking
- Cultural awareness
POSSIBLE MAPPING TO THIS CAREER AREA
- Incorporate environmental considerations into development projects. Recognize the interconnectedness between environmental, social and economic aspects of sustainable development.
- Conduct environmental impact assessments (EIAs) and integrate sustainability assessments to ensure that projects align with environmental protection and long-term viability.
- Apply sustainable resource management principles to projects, considering responsible use of water, energy and other natural resources.
- Collaborate with local communities to understand their environmental concerns, needs and aspirations. Ensure that development projects are culturally sensitive and aligned with local values.
International Relations / Political Science
Related
Skills
- Research and analysis
- Understanding of international law
- Conflict resolution
- Quantitative analysis
- Foreign policy analysis
- Communication skills
- Cross-cultural competence
- Critical thinking
- Leadership and influence
- Ethical and moral judgement
POSSIBLE MAPPING TO THIS CAREER AREA
- Utilize your understanding of international policy frameworks to advocate for development programs aligned with global goals, such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Apply your knowledge of diplomatic relations and negotiation skills to engage with diverse stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, international organizations and local communities.
- Understand the roles of international organizations and institutions in development efforts and collaborate with them to achieve common goals.
- Analyze political risks and vulnerabilities in project implementation, developing strategies to mitigate potential challenges.
Business Administration / Economics
Related
Skills
- Data analytics
- Strategic planning
- Project management
- Market research
- Business development
- Financial analysis
- Leadership
- Communication
- Adaptability
- Critical thinking
- Problem-solving
POSSIBLE MAPPING TO THIS CAREER AREA
- Leverage your networking skills to forge partnerships with stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, donors, and local communities, to enhance collaboration and program impact.
- Conduct financial assessments of development projects, evaluating costs, benefits and financial sustainability to make informed decisions.
- Apply performance metrics and data analysis to measure the social and economic impact of development programs, demonstrating accountability and effectiveness.
- Draw on your understanding of CSR principles to design and implement socially responsible programs that benefit communities and foster sustainable development.
Public Policy and Public Administration
Related
Skills
- Policy analysis
- Quantitative analysis
- Legal knowledge
- Budgeting and financial analysis
- Program evaluation
- Communication
- Critical thinking
- Negotiation and diplomacy
- Ethical judgement
- Interpersonal skills
POSSIBLE MAPPING TO THIS CAREER AREA
- Apply your expertise to ensure that development programs align with international agreements, such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and local policies to maximize impact.
- Leverage your understanding of public engagement and collaboration to build relationships with governments, NGOs, community leaders, and international organizations.
- Draw on your knowledge of governance structures to enhance the capacity of local institutions and governments in the countries where you work.
- Leverage your understanding of partnership models to collaborate with governments, businesses, and civil society for sustainable development solutions.
Engineering and Technology
Related
Skills
- Technical proficiency
- Programming and coding
- Data analysis
- CAD and modeling
- Systems integration
- Creativity and innovation
- Attention to detail
- Collaboration
- Learning agility
- Time management
POSSIBLE MAPPING TO THIS CAREER AREA
- Utilize your technical skills to develop and implement technology-based solutions for education, healthcare, agriculture, and access to clean energy in underserved communities.
- Employ technology tools and data analytics to collect and analyze data, making informed decisions and tracking progress in development projects.
- Utilize information and communication technology to enhance education, healthcare, communication, and access to information in remote areas.
- Develop innovative solutions that address local challenges, utilizing your engineering mindset to create new approaches for development.