Becoming an International Humanitarian Aid Worker

Introduction

• Key Terms
• How we Collected the Data for This Book
• Features of the Book
• Structure of the Book
• Exercise
• Feedback

Part I: Background Information

• Chapter 1. International Humanitarian Aid Today
  • Abstract
  • 1.1 Background
  • 1.2 Changes to Humanitarian Work
  • 1.3 Move Toward Increased Hiring of National Staff
  • 1.4 Accountability
  • 1.5 Innovation
  • 1.6 Professionalization
  • 1.7 Resources
  • 1.8 Exercise
• Chapter 2. Humanitarian Organizations and Jobs
  • Abstract
  • 2.1 Types of Organizations
  • 2.2 Coordination Structures
  • 2.3 Donors and Funding Agencies
  • 2.4 Nontraditional Partners in Humanitarian Action
  • 2.5 Job Categories
  • 2.6 Skills and Functions
  • 2.7 Salary Expectations
  • 2.8 Conclusion
  • 2.9 Resources
  • 2.10 Exercise
• Chapter 3. The Reality of Working in Humanitarian Aid
  • Abstract
  • 3.1 Motivation
  • 3.2 The Field Experience
  • 3.3 Headquarters Jobs
  • 3.4 Conclusion
  • 3.5 Resources
  • 3.6 Exercise

Part II: Preparing to Work in Humanitarian Aid

• Part II. Preparing to Work in Humanitarian Aid
• Chapter 4. Core Competencies in Humanitarian Action: Soft Skills
  • Abstract
  • 4.1 Core Humanitarian Behaviors: Essential Qualities, Traits, and Skills
  • 4.2 Resources
  • 4.3 Exercise
• Chapter 5. Core Competencies in Humanitarian Action: Hard Skills
  • Abstract
  • 5.1 Generalist Skills
  • 5.2 Niche Skills
  • 5.3 Knowledge of the Humanitarian Sector
  • 5.4 Resources
  • 5.5 Exercise
• Chapter 6. Experiences
  • Abstract
  • 6.1 Education and Training
  • 6.2 Work Experience
  • 6.3 Field Experience
  • 6.4 Funding Options for Students and Job Seekers
  • 6.5 Conclusion
  • 6.6 Resources
  • 6.7 Exercise
• Chapter 7. Networks
  • Abstract
  • 7.1 Starting Your Network From Scratch
  • 7.2 Use Your Preexisting Networks
  • 7.3 Seize Every Opportunity to Meet Practitioners
  • 7.4 In-Office Opportunities
  • 7.5 Key Networking Tips
  • 7.6 Conclusion
  • 7.7 Resources
  • 7.8 Exercise

Part III: Searching for Jobs and What You Need to Know When You Have an Offer

• Chapter 8. Job Search
  • Abstract
  • 8.1 Step 1: Get into the Right Frame of Mind
  • 8.2 Step 2: Be Strategic
  • 8.3 Step 3: Be Systematic
  • 8.4 Some Strategies for Getting a Humanitarian Job
  • 8.5 The Application Process
  • 8.6 Application Materials
  • 8.7 Staying Positive
  • 8.8 Resources
  • 8.9 Exercise
• Chapter 9. After the Job Offer
• Abstract
• 9.1 You Have the Offer, Now What?
• 9.2 Security Arrangements
• 9.3 Mental Health Support in the Field
• 9.4 Sexual Harassment and Assault
• 9.5 Prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse
• 9.6 Salary
• 9.7 What to Expect Once You Accept the Offer
• 9.8 Taking Care of Your Health
• 9.9 Food
• 9.10 Living Arrangements
• 9.11 First Impressions When Arriving in the Field
• 9.12 Making Self-Care Central to Your Life
• 9.13 Exercise
• 9.14 Taking Time Off to Recharge
• 9.15 Sleep
• 9.16 Work-Related Situations
• 9.17 Having Realistic Expectations
• 9.18 What to Avoid
• 9.19 Maintaining Social Ties
• 9.20 Getting Professional Support
• 9.21 Socializing
• 9.22 Relationships
• 9.23 Knowing When to Leave a Job
• 9.24 Knowing When to Stop/Step Away From the Profession Itself
• 9.25 Conclusion
• 9.26 Resources