Essential Skills and In-Demand Profiles for Careers in Humanitarian Settings – Experts Give Advice

1. Building relevant work experience
   A common challenge for aspiring humanitarians is breaking into the sector with little experience. As Oana pointed out, "Try to build as much experience that is relevant and applicable to the job as possible." Internships, volunteering, and temporary assignments, such as UN Volunteer roles, provide opportunities for individuals to gain field exposure. These roles often serve as stepping stones into larger organisations and allow candidates to assess whether the work aligns with their long-term goals. 
   
   Dorothèe also emphasised the importance of gaining practical skills through volunteering, noting, “If you launch your own small NGO or association, you learn so much. It will help you at some point to get into the organisation you aim for.” 
    
2. Investing in continuous learning and certifications
   The humanitarian sector values candidates who invest in their professional growth. Specialised certifications, such as those in logistics, protection, or disaster management, can make a significant difference. According to Dorothée, "Technical skills, such as logistics and supply chain management, are highly valued, especially when combined with digital skills."
   
   Language proficiency is another critical asset, as Simone highlighted. "Language skills, especially in field contexts, are often a requirement," she explained. Continuous learning also signals a candidate’s commitment to staying updated with the latest trends and realities in humanitarian work. 
    
3. Developing strong soft skills
   While technical skills are vital, soft skills are equally important. Humanitarian work often involves high-pressure environments and intercultural collaboration. Effective communication, critical thinking, and adaptability are non-negotiable. Simone affirmed the importance of “dealing with ambiguity and reflecting on power dynamics” as essential competencies.
   
   Self-awareness and self-care are increasingly recognised as vital attributes. As Oana shared, "Being able to look after yourself is one of the top skills we’re looking for, especially for hardship locations." Humanitarian organisations now assess candidates on their ability to manage stress and maintain personal well-being – an acknowledgment of the mental health challenges inherent in the field. 
    
4. Navigating the recruitment process 
   Standing out in a competitive job market requires a strategic approach. Tailored applications and networking are a must. "Networking and recommendations help," Dorothèe advised. "Confront your profile with people in the field and identify gaps." Leveraging platforms such as cinfo can help candidates navigate the application process and find opportunities aligned with their skills.
   
   Oana offered practical advice for crafting compelling applications: "Don’t use a generic cover letter. Tailor your application to the job you’re applying for." Additionally, pursuing short-term consultancies or temporary assignments can serve as an entry point into organisations where internal mobility often favours existing employees. 
    
5. Understanding Emerging Trends and Roles
   The humanitarian sector is evolving to address new challenges, including climate change, digital transformation, and mental health. Roles in innovation, artificial intelligence, and climate resilience are becoming more prominent. Dorothèe highlighted the growing demand for “digital skills, such as data management and information systems,” reshaping logistics and operations. 
   
   Simone and Oana also noted the increased focus on localisation and capacity building. This trend reflects the sector’s commitment to empowering local actors and ensuring sustainable aid delivery. “Quality management and capacity building are key areas of growth,” Dorothèe added.

Pursuing a career in humanitarian work requires persistence, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous learning. To build a competitive profile, you should consider: 

• Gaining relevant experience
  Start with internships, volunteering, or short-term assignments to gain practical skills and field exposure 
• Investing in certifications and language skills
  Acquire certifications in high-demand areas and enhance your language proficiency 
• Developing soft skills
  Focus on effective communication, critical thinking, and self-awareness to navigate complex environments 
• Leveraging networks
  Build connections within the sector and seek mentorship from professionals to gain insights and opportunities 
• Patience and Persistence
  Recognise that entry into senior roles may take time and multiple applications 

The discussion at Forum cinfo 2024 underscored the evolving demands required to negotiate the volatile nature of humanitarian settings. A career in this sector is as much about personal growth as it is about professional achievement. To succeed, aspiring professionals must blend technical expertise, soft skills, and a commitment to continuous learning. Individuals can position themselves for rewarding careers that contribute to global change and cooperation with persistence and strategic actions. 

As Dorothèe aptly concluded, "Professional careers are long. Take the time to explore and understand what truly motivates you."