Crack the Code: Mastering the Required vs. Desired Criteria to Get Shortlisted for UN Jobs

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Are you frustrated by repeated rejections for UN jobs? It’s time to decode the mystery and boost your chances of getting noticed. Apart from many distinguishing criterias, one of the key features that makes you stand out is in understanding the difference between ‘Required‘ and ‘Desired‘ qualifications in the job criteria.

1. Required vs. Desired: What’s the Difference?

UN job postings often have two types of criteria: ‘Required’ and ‘Desired.’ Understanding these can make or break your application.

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Required Qualifications: These are non-negotiable. If you don’t meet these qualifications, your application is likely to be dismissed. Think of them as the absolute must-haves—essential skills, specific degrees, or years of experience that are crucial for the role.
Desired Qualifications: These are supplementary and represent the ‘ideal’ candidate profile. While not mandatory, having these can significantly boost your application. They might include additional skills, specialized experience, or particular certifications that enhance your candidacy.

Lets take a look at the P3 Political Affairs Position below : The vacancy is clear on what is required and what is desirable. To increase your chances of securing an interview and have your application move to the next stage you need to demonstrate how you meet the required requirements, i.e in this case work experience -minimum work experience of 5 years with a Master’s degree and 7 years with a Bachelor’s degree, the stated educational qualifications below,

The job description or terms of references further indicates the desirable requirements

2. Tailoring Your Application

To stand out, you need to clearly demonstrate how you meet the ‘Required’ qualifications. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight these qualifications and use concrete examples from your past experience.

Here’s a sample response that addresses the required and desirable qualifications for a position based on the provided criteria:

Question

Do you possess the relevant experience in Political Affairs ? Yes No

If you have answered yes Demonstrate how you meet the relevant experience, qualifications in political affairs

Sample Response

With a Master’s degree in International Relations and over six years of progressively responsible experience in political affairs, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team. From 2016 -2024, as a Political Affairs officer at USA Embassy in Iraq, I assisted in advisory to the head of mission in negotiating peace deals with warring parties in order to manage conflicts and , post-conflict rehabilitations. In addittion, l Prepared responses to comments, statements, and queries of parties and managing operations involving several components of a limited nature, such as civilian, military, or humanitarian operations. I developed and maintained relations with government officials at the working levels and advises them on issues and policies of mutual concern. My efforts lead to a breakthrough in striking a ceasefire deal during 2020 at the height of war in Iraq which reduced death of civilians drastically from reports of 30 death cases per day to 0 death cases

The above demonstrates the required experience and the success which the candidate brough.

Relevant Experience:

Educational Background: I hold a Master’s degree in International Relations from , which has equipped me with a robust theoretical and practical understanding of political science, conflict resolution, and international development.
Progressively Responsible Experience: Over the past six years, I have gained extensive experience in political affairs and development management. At [Current/Previous Employer], I have been responsible for [specific tasks or projects], where I successfully [mention key achievements or contributions, e.g., “coordinated cross-border peace initiatives” or “managed multi-stakeholder dialogue sessions”].
Desirable Experience: I have worked in Peace Stabilization Mission in Gaza , where I focused on conflict resolution and diplomatic engagement. This role involved [mention relevant activities, e.g., “liaising with local governments and NGOs in a high-stakes environment”], aligning closely with the experience you seek.
Field Office Experience: During my tenure at [Organization/Location], I was stationed in a field office, where I managed [specific responsibilities or projects]. This hands-on experience has given me a nuanced understanding of field operations and the challenges faced in conflict or post-conflict settings.
UN System Experience: My role at [Previous Employer], a [UN agency/NGO/comparable organization], involved [specific tasks, e.g., “supporting peacekeeping missions and collaborating with UN agencies”], which aligns with the experience in the United Nations Common System that you are looking for.

The responses above highlights how your qualifications meet both the required and desirable criteria, demonstrating a strong fit for the position.

3. Leveraging Desired Qualifications

If you possess any ‘Desired’ qualifications, make sure they’re prominently featured. While they are not essential, they can set you apart from other candidates. Use your cover letter to discuss how these additional qualifications make you a unique fit for the role.

4. The Power of Customization

Generic applications are a thing of the past. Customize each application to align with the specific requirements of the job posting. This approach not only shows that you’ve read and understood the job description but also demonstrates your genuine interest in the position.

5. Seek Feedback and Improve

If you’re not getting shortlisted, seek feedback on your applications. Many times, constructive criticism can provide insights into what might be missing or needs improvement.

Understanding and strategically addressing the ‘Required’ and ‘Desired’ criteria can transform your job application process. By presenting yourself as not just a fit but an ideal candidate, you’ll enhance your chances of making it through the initial screening and landing an interview. Apply these insights, and turn your UN job aspirations into reality!

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