Many of those who want to enter the international development jobs market find it hard to get a foot in the door. The sector requires knowledge, skill, and perseverance. Although there is also a lot of competition among novice and junior consultants, multiple success stories prove that it is doable. That’s why achieving this involves, as in most job searches, taking the first step and applying to opportunities within one’s sector of expertise.
For over a decade, the DevelopmentAid platform has been a reliable partner in this regard to thousands of individual consultants in international development cooperation. Today, we reveal the story of Alphonse Dayou, a professional in accounting and financial management from Benin.
Alphonse shared his experience in getting a grip on the international development jobs market and how our platform helped him to do so.
To begin with, tell us more about your sector and expertise.
I’m a professional in accounting and financial management for international NGOs and international organizations. I’m fluent in the management of budgets, the management of projects and grants, project proposal development, financial systems and tools, donors’ relationships, and financial and grant reports.
What are your career goals? Give us an overview of the specific targets you hope to meet.
I have been the finance department manager for various international NGOs for more than 14 years. Recently, I joined the UN Migration (International Organization for Migration – editor’s note) as Administrative and Finance Officer. As career goals, I can say that in a few years I plan to be part of the top management of an international organization and an expert in financial management.
What challenges did you face at the beginning of your career? What motivated you to solve these and how?
The main challenge I faced was the language limitation. After having done all my schooling in French, I entered the professional world and realized that everything must be done in English. It was a great opportunity for me to combine learning and practice.
How did you find out about DevelopmentAid?
A friend showed me the DevelopmentAid website. I decided to explore it and become a member because it seemed to offer the tools and information that I would need to become a professional and land a well-paid job.
Was there a moment when you realized your CV wasn’t opening the doors you wanted to step through?
In 2017, after working 10 years with my first employer, I started searching for jobs in other organizations but I realized that I was almost never shortlisted. In the few cases when I was shortlisted, I was not able to be the best candidate. This motivated me to look for the best ways to improve my CV (to increase the number of calls and interviews) and to develop professional skills (to become the best candidate). This happened around the time a friend suggested that I check out DevelopmentAid.org.
Did you see any difference when you had your CV and cover letter professionally tailored?
I realized a net difference after having my CV and cover letter tailored by DevelopmentAid. For most of the positions for which I submitted my application after it had been tailored, I have been shortlisted to compete and test my knowledge and skills. There was a time when I got two jobs at the same time. I can confirm that the work done by DevelopmentAid was very professional.
What do you think of the DevelopmentAid Professional membership?
I subscribed to the job alert and every day I receive the advertised announcements. This helps me to have information in real-time and apply for vacant positions promptly. DevelopmentAid also helps me to discover many international NGOs, international organizations, and UN agencies. This increases my knowledge and my chances to get new assignments.
How have your career goals been impacted by the solutions provided by DevelopmentAid?
The DevelopmentAid solutions have had a positive impact on my life and on my professional activities. In the past, I was scared when I wanted to apply for a job. Today, thanks to DevelopmentAid support, I’m more confident and can get the best job that I want.
What have you learned from collaborating with us?
By collaborating with DevelopmentAid I have learnt that only the sky is the limit for professional development. We have many opportunities to grow as rapidly as we want if we have the will.
What would you say to other experts in the international development cooperation sector?
I recommend that they subscribe to DevelopmentAid solutions to showcase their competences and become a professional and visible expert.
What advice would you give to your younger self and to junior professionals?
If they want to get a new job, if they want to become professionals in their sectors, if they plan to become experts, this platform is the solution.
See also: Why I left a permanent job for an independent consultant career. Experts’ Opinions (PART II)
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