6 Ways To Apply For Jobs That You Are Not Fully Qualified For

By Mark Namaswa, 
After scanning job search media like newspapers and online job sites, you finally find a job that falls within your area of expertise. But there’s a small problem: either they ask for five years’ experience when you have three, or ask for academic qualifications that are a shade higher than what you have. Still your conviction tells you the job is within reach. Should you give it a try?

HR Business Partner – Head Office & International Businesses

The Position
Reporting to the HR Director, the HR Business Partner will be responsible for the provision of end to end HR partnership to the business. 

The role is responsible for implementing organizational and people strategy to support the delivery of business goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide generalist HR support to the Head Office Functions as well as KCB’s international businesses.
• Ensure the right structures, policies and processes are in place to support delivery of business strategy.
• Provide strong HR consultancy, advice and coaching with regards to human capital to managers in the Head Office Functions and International Businesses in order to effectively achieve business results.
• Focus on talent and succession, resourcing, retention and Learning and Development of employees.
• Manage staff resourcing and recruitment needs as per the approved staff establishment.
• Act as a performance improvement driver and ensure consistent implementation of performance management processes.
• Monitor and control staff operating costs at optimal levels
• Undertake internal customer and stakeholder engagements and resolve all HR related matters.
• Monitor closure of HR business partnership issues arising from HR audits and employee surveys.
• Provide accurate Management Information to support the decision making process.

Position Qualifications / Requirements

• An undergraduate degree in a business related field.
• Human Resources professional qualifications are required.
• An MBA/business related Master’s Degree will be an added advantage
• At least 8 years’ senior level HR experience covering both specialist and generalist areas of HR.
• In depth knowledge and experience in resourcing, performance management, organizational design and workforce planning.
• Strong management skills with the ability to influence others
• Excellent relationship management skills.
• Excellent interpersonal/communication and presentation skills
• Ability to negotiate and/or reach consensus with all levels and positions within the Bank.
• Strong leadership skills with demonstrated competencies in championing customer focus.
• Demonstrated capacity to lead, coach and supervise team members effectively to deliver on targets.

The above positions are demanding for which the bank will provide a competitive package for the successful candidate.  

If you believe you can clearly demonstrate your abilities to meet the criteria given above, please submit your application with a detailed CV stating your current position, remuneration level, e-mail and telephone contacts quoting the job title/reference in the subject field to; recruitment@kcb.co.ke

To be considered your application must be received by March 7, 2014.

Only short listed candidates will be contacted.

Job Ref: HR 04/2014

TOP 5 WAYS TO ANNOY A RECRUITER

Some companies use recruitment agencies to conduct hiring for them.This are the top 5 ways to annoy a recruiter and blow your job chances:

THE TOP FIVE MOST COMMON INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

Everyone seemsto dread the interview.To get over your fear,the best thing is to show up prepared.Thus knowing the most likely questins the interviewer might ask puts you in a better position  than your peers.

This are the top Five interview questions that are mostly asked:

1. What are your weaknesses?
While common sense instructs you to answer in a sincere manner, we discourage it completely. To answer this question, strategize on highlighting

RESUME WRITING - HOW TO DO IT EFFICIENTLY, 4 TIPS

Once a job advertisement has been placed on the dailies, internet or any other form of media, it gives a prospective candidate an opportunity to compete for the position and get the job that he/she has been yearning for. A resume is the key that opens the magic door and one should ensure that it clearly and concisely and with less detail explain why he thinks he’s playing a notch higher than other competitors. 

INTERVIEW DRESS CODE - DO'S AND DONTS

There are a number of dress codes that are considered standard for various kinds of interviews depending on the profession or the career path one wants to follow. A sharp, professional, clean look helps the candidate create a first and lasting impression to the employer and creates a strong point that may help him secure the job. Outlined

Architect Kenyan Job Kenya Airports Authority

Lead Architect
Ref LA/JAN/2014
Job Purpose: To plan, design and implement airports’ facilities development/improvements to meet the strategic needs of the business.
This position reports directly to the General Manager (Projects & Engineering Services).
Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform architectural duties, using computer aided drafting and design (CADD) and managing architectural projects from definition through to completion of construction.
• Develop concepts and designs for buildings, interpretation of standards, coordinating and consulting with engineering specialties, and participating in design and site meetings.
• Monitoring project compliance by maintaining a variety of records, reports, plans, and files on work projects as set out in line with Corporate Plan.
• Review field data, providing construction support services and investigating existing site conditions by conducting periodic on-site observation of construction work, reviewing contractor submittals and requests for information, preparing specifications, working drawings, bid documents, and estimates and presentations of drawings and models.
• Review and evaluate designs prepared by other agencies or private contractors/consultants by ensuring adequacy, completeness, economy and compliance with design criteria, design standards, applicable codes and maintainability.
• Assist in the interpretation of architectural and engineering design standards established by local jurisdictions by conducting codes and regulation research.
• Improve the Authority’s rating on environmental sustainability in airport facilities development.
• To continually undertake research on new technology and developments for airport facilities improvement.
• Qualifications
• Bachelor of Architecture degree from a recognized university.
• Minimum 10 years post-university experience in a busy architectural office.
• Must be registered with the Board of Registration of Architects & Quantity Surveyors (BORAQS) or other internationally recognized body.
• Registration with LEED/Green Star Professional by Country Chapter of the World Green Building Council would be an added advantage.
• Knowledge of design/drafting software including ArchiCAD and AutoCAD is a must.
• Knowledge and application of presentation software (Artlantis and/or Piranesi) would be an added advantage.

How to Apply
Interested candidates are required to submit application letters, curriculum vitae and copies of certificates and other testimonials on or before 3rd February 2014 to the address below quoting the reference on the envelope.
The Managing Director
Kenya Airports Authority
P o Box 19001-00501
Nairobi
KAA does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, gender, ethnicity or disability.
Please note that canvassing will lead to automatic disqualification
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.”

KCB JOBS..... Corporate Communications Manager

Reporting to the Head of Corporate &Regulatory Affairs, this role is responsible for developing and implementing high impact communication strategies to build a sustainable corporate image and reputation for the KCB Group brand.
Key Responsibilities

• Implementing the organization’s communication strategy.
• Creating and managing valuable media partnerships and engagement plans.
• Managing the content for the organization’s Internet website, Intranet and social media platforms.
• Facilitating design, production and editing of corporate publications and press information.
• Facilitating media visibility and publicity for all corporate events, functions and activities
• Managing internal communications strategies and plans in support of business objectives.
• Managing corporate advertisements, media supplements and documentaries for internal and external communication.
• Originating speeches, statements, profiles and other forms of corporate communications for external stakeholders and having oversight for all internal communication.
• Coordinate communication logistics, research and briefing for all communication related activities.
• Identify thought leadership opportunities for business executives with opinion leaders.
• Manage third party suppliers for PR agency, photography and videography services.
• Creatively communicate business and project updates for internal communication.
• Writing and editing the Bank’s publication materials and corporate events launches.

The Person

• A university degree in Mass Communication, Media or Public Relations from a recognized university.
• Possession of professional qualifications in Journalism or PR related skills.
• Must have at least 5 years’ experience in corporate communications.
• Three years’ Experience in writing press releases, commentaries, publications, opinion pieces, video scripts and speeches.
• Knowledge of French language will be an added advantage
• Experience in Crisis communication and management
• Experience in business strategy will be essential
• A genuine interest in providing excellent customer service
• Possession project management skill will be essential
• knowledge of trends in financial industry
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Ability to build strong working relationships, internal and external to the organization
• Initiative, self-drive and open minded
• Attention to detail
• Team Player

The above position is a demanding role which the bank will provide a competitive package for the successful candidate.
If you believe you can clearly demonstrate your abilities to meet the criteria given above, please submit your application with a detailed CV, stating your current position, remuneration level, e-mail address and telephone contacts quoting the job title/reference in the subject field to recruitment@kcb.co.ke.
To be considered your application must be received by March 7, 2014.
Only short listed candidates will be contacted.
Job Ref: CRA 01/2014

CV Writing Service Kenya

A CV is your gate pass to an interview with a prospective employer and therefore it should represent you in the best possible light and  set you apart from other candidates.
While a cover letter is another way of introducing yourself to a potential employer answering the question why you should be hired, it should be convincing enough to get the recruiter want to read your CV.
Every section of your CV contains information of most value – and relevance – to the advertised position.
Writing a CV can be an overwhelming task, but it is one of the best investments you can make in finding your next job opportunity, if you want your CV to stand out from the crowded market.
Candidates with professional written CV and Cover letter get noticed more often, because their documents are authored by people who understand how recruiters work.
What your CV says about you can be the difference between getting in the door and missing your chance.
We have partnered with Corporate Staffing Services Limited, which is registered by the Ministry of Labour and members of Institute of Human Resource Management (IHRM) to offer Professional CV and Cover Letter Writing Services.
Contact Corporate Staffing Services via Caroline via cvwriting@corporatestaffing.co.ke or June via june.njoroge@corporatestaffing.co.ke

Top 10 Ways To Make Sure You Are Shortlisted In Your Job Application

Do you apply for jobs without any response? How would you know if you’re eyeing the right job or you’re chasing a lost cause?
Many job seekers find themselves applying for so many that they meet most if not all the qualifications with high hopes of getting the job, but they never hear from employers. “Chances are the HR Managers think you could be wrong for the job, or your CV could reflect your qualification runs short from what the company is looking for,” explains Martin Githaiga, HR Officer at Corporate Staffing Services.
Companies will always want only the best people in their team. Someone who can get the job done, and perform any task outside the job description if need be, without any fail. To make sure that they only get the exact person they need, the hiring process starts with the creation of selection criteria list.
Mr. Githaiga explains that, the selection criteria “are standards that job applicants need to meet. These include qualifications, knowledge, skills, abilities and experience.” The selection will be based primarily on what criteria have been stated on the list, and people will only be considered if they meet all requirements, no buts, and no ifs.
How do find the selection criteria? “This may appear in advertisements, position descriptions or duty statements.” However, some employers do not use the label of selection criteria. You may need to analyse the job to find what the employer is looking for in candidates. For example, if the role involves dealing with clients, it implies the need for interpersonal and customer service skills.
Every job applicant has a responsibility to assess themselves first before applying for anything. “First you need to go through the job advert carefully and identify the key things that an advert seeks in a candidate,” explains Mr. Githaiga. He illustrates that if a company is looking for SAP Accountant, then knowledge of SAP packages is key for the post.
The other thing is to look if the position is in your line of career. “Find out if you are qualified for what the company you’re interested at is looking for,” adds Mr Githaiga. For instance, say the post requires knowledge of French language, can you speak in French?
After weighing your chances by keenly studying their hiring criteria, then you need to base your job application CV and cover letter based on what they’re looking for.
Samuel Njoroge, Regional Recruiter Path International advises on the need to tailor your CV in line with the requirements of the job, stressing the role required for the job. Let’s say the job requires 2-3 years work experience, good communication skills etc. If you meet the experience bracket, then you can to pick the strengths required in the job.
He further adds that where one has multiple work experiences; “you can position yourself for the job by leaving out experience that is not relevant.” For instance, say the job is for Admin Assistant and you have worked in Teaching, Sales, Customer Service and Administration. You may leave out the teaching experience and focus on the roles with transferrable skills.
Mr Githaiga recommends that, when writing a Cover letter it’s important to stress the experience and competencies required for the role. He illustrates that, if a company requires an accountant, who has worked in an a micro- finance, and you have worked in an bank, and may be dealing with micro finance, then you can stress it out on your cover letter.
In conclusion, Mr. Njoroge says that, “addressing the selection criteria is the most important part of your application.” The selection panels will use these to decide who to short-list for interview as well as base interview questions around the selection criteria. However, he warns job applicants against “giving false information that may put your integrity into question.”

Job Interviews

Job Interviews
When you are looking for a job, one of the most important things you can do is make a positive impact at your first interview.
Landing a job interview invitation in itself is a cause for celebration, but this does not a guarantee you the job offer. Many job seekers will tell you they always attend interviews and will never get hired or even hear from the employers.
The trick in passing any job interview is interviews is preparation, impression and standing out among other candidates. You still have to go in there and impress them. If you make a good first impression, then the rest of the interview might also go well; however, if you don’t make a good first impression, then you will spend the rest of the interview trying to make up for your mistakes.
Standing out in an interview session takes careful planning. Your personality doesn’t matter so much: whether you are shy, reserved, scared, nervous, confident, or outgoing. There is an art to making an impression during any face to face interaction that will create a lasting impact.
Good interview preparation projects you as a poised and confident person to the employer. It is therefore important to prepare well and practice the answers to common interview questions, as well as what you will dress in.
Corporate Staffing Services offers job interview preparation focusing on making an impact in interviews: body language, presentation, responses to tough interview questions, salary and questions to ask employers among others.

SEVEN REASONS YOU DIDN'T GET THE INTERVIEW

You sit and stare at the phone. You check your email. You check your text messages to see if perhaps you missed that all important call or text message inviting you over to your first appointment whit this company you’ve so wanted to join, but there is nothing. How can this be? You might wonder. Well today we look at some of the reasons why for a number of job seekers, getting that first foot in the door seems such an elusive task.

Cover letter
To start with, examine your cover letter.It probably looks decent enough seeing as you did spend quite some time writing it. Remember however that every else did spend quite some time writing theirs as well, so in the end the employer may have ended up with applications that were more or less the same. This unfortunately makes it that much easier for them to ignore nearly all of them.


The “I” attitude
When writing pitches for jobs, many people tend to write of their achievements in the first person. “I was responsible for…” “During my time at… I supervised…” Focusing too much on your own achievements may prevent the employer from seeing what you have to offer the company. Do not sell yourself short.Try writing with your focus on the ‘you’ attitude. Show the employer how they by hiring you, not what you gain by getting hired.

Resume/CV
If you can’t find a problem in your cover letter, how about the resume/cv you sent in?  Remember that these two terms mean two different things and thus serve different purposes. Your cv/resume is meant to advertise you to a prospective employer, so like any other marketing tool, it needs to be carefully designed in order to have the most impact.

Tone
A cover letter should not only be well written, it should also ideally match the tone that was present in the original job description. To do this, look at the job description. How are sentences worded? While most firms will normally employ a formal tone, (and consequently should get a formal response), others will not. This is especially true in creative industries such as graphic design, or marketing firms which may be looking for any signs of creativity. And that includes your letter, so be careful. A simple test is, to read your letter out to a friend or two and ask them what they were thinking about when they were listening to you.

Are you qualified or experienced enough?
No doubt a tricky subject this. Many people feel that they missed out on jobs which they met all the required qualifications. While that may be true, employers generally use the qualifications requirement to filter out the huge numbers of expected traffic from eager job seekers. If you do meet all of the listed prerequisites, include something that will make you that little bit different from the majority of the people. How about that time you helped out by volunteering at the children’s home? Or perhaps that time you spent volunteering at the Kenya Red Cross? Workshops, seminars, training you have attended? Include them all!

Good references.
Some employers may perform background checks on prospective applicants after the selection process, but before notifying them through their contacts. This includes getting opinions on the applicants character from past employers, trainers etc. For this, your references are absolutely critical as they will either make or break you in the eyes of the employer. Include only the people with whom you have had good professional relations, and even then, remember to ask them for their permission before you do. If an employer picks up on any doubt or uncertainty in their voice when they speak of you, then it could seriously put a dent in your credibility, leading to your name being dropped from the shortlist. Try and get the right people on your side.

Timing
Like any other opportunity, timing plays quite an important role in landing you that dream job. Believe it or not choosing the right time to send in your application can make a difference. While there is no agreed upon time to do so, some (link) career experts believe that the best time to send in your job application is approximately a week to the deadline, so that you beat the main rush in the form of the early applicants.

RESUME WRITING - HOW TO DO IT EFFICIENTLY, 4 TIPS

Once a job advertisement has been placed on the dailies, internet or any other form of media, it gives a prospective candidate an opportunity to compete for the position and get the job that he/she has been yearning for. A resume is the key that opens the magic door and one should ensure that it clearly and concisely and with less detail explain why he thinks he’s playing a notch higher than other competitors.

Guidelines to effective writing;

how to write a resumePresentation: - the employer might have gone through a number of resumes before reaching yours, presentation gives him the conviction to take time to pass through your resume and see what you’re all about. The resume should have good formatting, relative font and a striking style.


Straight to the point: - The information presented in the resume should be display why you are the best candidate for the job, going into objectives does not help increase your chances, the manager wants to see what your bring on board , your past responsibilities and not past results. Display how the contents of your resume match up to the job description and requirements.

Honesty: - presentation of information that is not accurate, skills and experiences that do not match your qualifications will only land you a title as the candidate who was fired immediately he started work as you may not be able to rise to the occasion and support your allegations after the interviewers background check within the first week at work.

Final fold: - This should encompass your educational background and is left for candidates who have just graduated from school and have no experience and skills to display. For those that have the experience and qualification they should use the final fold to provide quantifiable results which are articulate and precise.

Summary.
A good resume is the only potent reason that can make you stand out from the rest of the applicants and get an opportunity to secure that job. Presentation is what whets the managers appetite and gives him the urge to read it.

Note.
You should also consider supporting it with a cover letter as an extra, check for grammatical errors and have a series of resumes if you are a person who is looking forward to apply for different kinds of jobs.

10 REASONS TO QUIT YOUR CURRENT JOB / EMPLOYER

The decision to look for a new job should be strategic and carefully analyzed. When you are searching for a lucrative deal with another organization the following points will help you consider if you’re ready to quit your current job.

1. Underutilization of talent: If you feel that you have an enormous talent and the organization does not give you a chance to explore your talent as it does not create room for initiative and innovativeness then it’s a high time to move on and find one that will. You might want to take up challenges that will enable you use your skills but the management does not provide them.

2. Passion for the job: doing what you like increases your efficiency and effectiveness at the work place. In most cases people who work because they have to and not because they like their job end up with high stress levels and underperform their duties. If you’re not passionate about your job look for one that you’re passionate about.


3. Changes in life: sometimes life situation changes and one faced with the challenge of moving from one social status to another. Incases where you develop a family or you’re posted to a branch where the living standards are high and the remuneration is low. You should consider quitting your job and look for a better one.

4. Differing values: If your values are not in tandem with those of the organization, you do not believe in their cultural practices or ethics. It may include the company trafficking illegal stuff or engaging in acts that can harm those in relations with them this may greatly hinder your ability to work.

5. Sinking organization: The organization might be experiencing a fall in profits, staff lay offs and an increase in labour turn over as a result of poor management. A stitch in time saves nine, you should not wait to loose both the battle and the war

6. Poor working conditions: If you work in factory and the management does not provide for health and safety measures, there is poor ventilation, limited working space, you work for extra hours without an extra pay and there are no shifts, consider looking for an organization that will provide all this as health is important for increased productivity.

7. Better offer elsewhere: Every one is bound to move on to the next employing firm if they offer better services and remuneration than their current one. If you get a shot at improving your lifestyle and increase your productivity level forget about how much you feel the current boss likes you, if he liked you enough he would have given you a better offer.

8. Differences with the boss: if your relationship with the boss has gone down the drain and no matter how much you try to resolve your issues you still find yourselves at loggerheads then it’s a high time you consider quitting and look for someone whom you can work with as a boss. Trying hard to make amends with a boss whose a tyrant will only get you fired.

9. Work relationship: Your workmates may think they cannot work with you anymore and no one wants you in their group because they think you have been leaking information to the boss or for any other reason. This is a clear exit sign for you because no matter how productive you want to become your efforts will always be thwarted.

10.  Stressing job: if your current job is demanding and the set targets are unrealistic and cannot be achieved within the prescribed time, you’re called to work at odd hours and you notice its affecting you mental, physical and emotional state, that is the warning flare that tells you to quit before it starts affecting those around you.

TOP 5 REASONS YOU SHOULD ASK RECRUITERS QUESTIONS DURING INTERVIEWS

Having an interview go really smooth is every job candidate’s prayer. You just want to accurately answer all the questions thrown at you, shake their hands and faces goodbye; and dash out of the room. Bam! Everybody is happy. Maybe that worked in the 19th century when jobs chased after people but not in this era where recruiters are too busy looking for a few candidates in a stack of perceived qualified candidates.
Job interviews are a rare thing to come by but once you get the opportunity to attend one, anything less than a good impression would send you back to the job market. You may be thinking asking questions in an interview is a no-no for job seekers but interviewers aren’t there to suck up all the oxygen either.
While the spotlight’s on you, you also want to know some things about the company and the people you’ll be working with.  Asking interviewers questions (as appropriate) livens up the interview and makes it more interactive, interviewers don’t  feel boring – or bored- and it opens up an avenue to get as much clarity on any gray area.
This is not a post about the kinds of questions you should and should not ask in job interviews
That said, so what does asking questions do to interviewers?
It shows you are a thinker. It shows you are smart. It shows you’d rather save your recruiters any further stress if you are not up for the job. This could be in two ways, it could either grow the impression that you belong with them or that you don’t fit in. whichever way that goes, ask questions because you want to be sure you belong with them too.
I was once interviewed for a position, the job description sounded fun to me but I wasn’t so convinced about the role. I asked the interviewer what I’ll be doing in my first few weeks if I got the job; and as he explained, I realized it wasn’t a good fit for me. I could go on to do the job but I won’t be happy doing it. That mattered more to me and I would have been in for a rude awakening if I kept mute on that during the interview.
Recruiters sense your level of interest. You would buy into a product if  you see the manufacturer just doesn’t want to get money out of your wallet but is also interested in your well-being and really thinks his product does the magic. Asking questions in interviews pretty much does the same thing. You don’t give off that ‘I am desperate’ impression and it shows you are willing to give the job your best. A question like “what would be your expectations from me in the first few months on this job’’ can give recruiters a really good time.
It shows you’ve been listening. Interviewers hate to feel they are boring and when you give a flat ‘no’ in response to ”do you have any questions?” , you may not get them liking you that much. Listening is a highly sought after skill by most recruiters and a good listener is naturally inquisitive.  And of course, listening saves you the risk and shame of asking an already answered question.
It shows you are confident. This is a complete turn-on for interviewers, your confidence shows you know why you are there and you have a high self-esteem. Confidence gives you the freedom to be you and it’s a good way to ace interviews.
You add the wow effect. To whatever impression they have of you. Like I mentioned earlier, that’s what recruiters look out for. All job candidates can suddenly start looking the same but if you make recruiters stop to stare. That’s a first step to getting that job offer.
Don’t wait until the end of the interview before you ask your questions, that’s very stereotypic, to put it mildly. If you want to leave a lasting impression (which you should), do something most candidates won’t. An average job candidate feels he is at the mercy of the interviewers –however true that might be- and literally begs to be pampered, brown-noses his interviewers and carries a “I really need this job’ look throughout the interview, but a smart candidate – which I believe you are- knows the interview is not about the interviewers alone but also about how well the job suits him, or not. So get your fine self into the interview room drilling your potential employers as they do same, hopefully, you’ll make friends in the end.
Do you like asking questions in interviews? Tell me why and how that has affected your job search.

Information Assistant, Panama

OCHA - INFORMATION ASSISTANT

Location :

Panama, PANAMA

Application Deadline :

10-Mar-14

Type of Contract :

FTA Local

Post Level :

GS-5

Languages Required :

English   Spanish  

Starting Date :
(date when the selected candidate is expected to start)

01-Apr-2014

Duration of Initial Contract :

One year

Expected Duration of Assignment :

One year

Background

This position is located in the OCHA Regional Office for the Latin America and the Caribbean (ROLAC) in Panama.

OCHA supports the coordination of the humanitarian activities in the region working in collaboration with government authorities, NGOs, international organizations, NGOs, UN agencies and others partners to promote international standards and best practices aiming to improve the quality of the humanitarian actions in benefit to population in need.

Read more on www.unocha.org/about-us/who-we-are.

Duties and Responsibilities

Within delegated authority, the Information Assistant will be responsible for the following duties; which include analysis, communication, advocacy and public relations:

• Assist in the research, tracking, analysis, publication and storage of information related to humanitarian activities and disasters in the region;
• draft information and/or communication products for target audiences such as press releases, briefings packets, situation reports, brochures, video clips, newsletters, presentations, specific content for websites, and relevant information for advocacy products;
• support the Information Unit in gathering different type of data such as contact details on relevant humanitarian agencies and/or personnel to maintain contact datasets updated in the WhoWhatWhere database and Lotus Notes application;
• identify and propose information opportunities, activities and approaches, taking into account the situation and target audience;
• identify key constituencies for strategic partnerships to facilitate media communication efforts and maintain good working relationships with them;
• participate in the organization of conferences, seminars, press briefings, interviews and other events under OCHA responsibility, preparing briefing materials and/or other information product request;
• respond to a variety of inquiries and information requests internally and externally, working with different sources and different formats of information;
• support the implementation of the office strategy on the use of social media channels; 
• assist in the maintenance of OCHA ROLAC website using existing editorial procedures and technical mechanisms;
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor or Head of the Office.

Work implies frequent interaction with the following:

The Information Assistant reports to the Information Unit Manager and will work in close collaboration with the Humanitarian Affairs Officers from the Emergency Preparedness Unit and the Redhum Representatives located in other countries.

The Information Assistant may also interact with staff members from other OCHA offices abroad; consultants, corporate partners, NGOs, donors, UN agencies and other key partner international organizations.

During emergency phases, the information assistant is expect to work under pressure to delivery information products within a reduced timeframe and is also expected to work longer hours depending on the requirements of the emergency.

Competencies

Creativity

• Offers new and different options to solve problems or meet client needs.

Client Orientation

• Establishes and maintains productive partnerships with clients by gaining their trust and respect;
• Keeps clients informed of progress or setbacks in projects.

Communication 

• Strong communication (spoken and written) skills, including the ability to draft/compile a variety of written communications products and to articulate ideas in a clear, concise style;
• The ability to effectively communicate information to the public; and
• The ability to establish and maintain effective business connections.

Technological Awareness

• Fully proficient computer skills and use of relevant software and other applications, e.g. word processing, PowerPoint or equivalent, graphics software, internal databases, Internet, etc.

Teamwork

• Good interpersonal skills and ability to establish and maintain effective working relations in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity.

Other skills

• Ability to work productively under pressure, cope with deadlines, and the technical ability to work with online forms and systems.

Required Skills and Experience

Education:

• Secondary education. University degree in communications, journalism, public relations or other related fields is desirable, but it is not a requirement.

Experience:

• 5 years of relevant experience in communications, public relations and administration;
• Experience in the usage of computers and office software packages (MS Word, Excel, etc.). Experience in handling of web-based management systems.

Language Requirements:

• Fluency in oral and written Spanish and English;
• English to be tested through TOEFL (minimum 500 points);
• Working knowledge of French and Portuguese will be an advantage.

Additional Information:

• Qualified candidates who are interested in the above position are invited to submit their application to the following link:     http://www.undp.org/content/panama/es/home/operations/jobs;
• Applications should be submitted online and include UNDP Personal History Form (P11) duly signed not later than 10 March 2014.  Please attach your Curriculum Vitae (CV), along with your P11 form, in one pdf document;
• The electronic version of a UNDP Personal History Form can be downloaded from the vacancy announcement, which has been posted at http://www.undp.org/content/panama/es/home/operations/jobs/  and on www.redhum.org under respective vacancy sections;
• Please note that applications received after the deadline will not be considered;
• Only short-listed qualified candidates will receive an acknowledgement.

UNDP is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality and culture. Individuals from minority groups, indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence.

NGO Intern Job in Nairobi, Kenya

Position title: International Intern, Livelihood

SVN No: SVN/IOMSO/009/2014

Position grade : Ungraded

Duty station: Nairobi, Kenya   (US $ 500 p.m.)

Job family: Programmes

Organizational unit: Livelihoods Department

Subject to rotation: No

Reporting directly to: Senior Project Officer

Overall supervision by Project Manager

Managerial responsibility: None

Directly reporting staff: 0

Organizational Context and Scope

Job Vacancies in a Multi-National Company in Nairobi, Kenya

Business / Trade Developers.

A manufacturing company seeks to recruit Business / Trade Developers to help in starting and setting up retail channels in Nairobi and its environs for its products.

Requirements

• A holder of a Diploma in Sales and Marketing. .
• He/ she should be ready to work in a startup company, set up distribution channels and recruit grow the networks.
• He/ she should be computer literate.

Top Tips for Online Job Applications

Application forms are irritating. They ask difficult questions, some of which you may consider impertinent, others just silly. Why do employers use them?

While most employers still rely on CVs, large organisations that receive huge numbers of job applications generally prefer to use their own application form. By using these forms they get answers to the questions they want answered not just the information you decide to give. They can also more easily compare one application with another, which is much more difficult with CVs.

Over the last ten years there has been a steady growth of on-line application forms that are often tricky to complete and sometimes have word limits (usually around 200 words) for each question. Some employers allow you to partially complete the form and return later. Remember that they can read even your half completed form.

Selection criteria

But let's start at the beginning. For most jobs there is a Job description. Once that has been written it is a relatively straight-forward task to write a person specification with details of the education, skills and experience necessary. This leads to selection criteria, some of which are regarded as 'essential' and others considered ‘desirable'.

The application form is designed to discover evidence that you have all the essentials and perhaps some of the desirable abilities as well. Your task is to demonstrate that you have these.

Key tips:

• Be sure to read the questions carefully and answer them.  If a question includes two or three sub-questions answer all of them.
• Write your first draft independent of the application form and check it for spelling and grammar
• Use spell checks, but be wary of them. If you write ‘from' instead of ‘form', for example, it will not be picked up. For UK applications avoid those that introduce American spellings like ‘organize' and ‘center'.
• Cut and paste your answers onto the form.
• Be careful if you are taking material from another application not to include the name of the other organisation. This is the quickest way to the reject pile.
• Don't waffle. Keep your answers succinct. Edit them for unnecessary words.
• Include key verbs relating to the job like organised, supervised, and liaised. Some employers scan for key words and reject forms not including them.
• Your final check should always be to read it through in every detail

Personal Details and Education

Forms start with the easy bits: name and contact details. They then move on to qualifications. This section is not usually a problem unless your education was gained abroad. If this affects you, try to translate your grades into UK terms, perhaps using percentages. Some employers are not familiar with the American grade point average or qualifications graded 1 to 7. If you have difficulty you might consult NARIC who will translate qualifications for you for a fee.

The ‘Why?' Questions

One question that nearly always arises in some guise is ‘Why do you want to do this?' Always avoid negatives on application forms. Don't say you want to do this because you're bored with what you are doing now, don't like the people, they have not treated you well or paid you enough. Be positive and represent this as a move that offers the opportunity to better apply your skills and develop your career. Your cup must be half full, not half empty.

Arguably the most significant question is ‘Why us?' Don't go on extensively about how wonderful they are and what they are going to do for your career. Your answers should place more stress on what you can do for them than what they can do for you. When you apply you are attempting to start a relationship. Relationships are built on common ground. Research their web site and any other material you can find to discover what you have in common with the employer and highlight these.


Items to include when answering the ‘Why them?' question:

• Direct knowledge of their organisation
• Experience in the area of work you are applying for
• Experience of their industry, competitors, suppliers
• Knowledge of their products and services
• Familiarity with their location
• Work in firms of a similar size
• If they have operations abroad, some interest in countries in which they operate or linguistic skills.

Competencies - Skills in Action

It is usual these days to include competency questions which seek evidence of skills such as teamwork, organising, supervising or managing, problem solving, communicating, initiative and others. Naturally the relevant skills list arises from the job description and you can often guess what it includes.


The STARR method is the best way to answer competency questions.

• S - describe a situation
• T - tell them what your task or role was
• A - say what action you took
• R - always mention the result; employers like results driven employees
• R - sometimes it is appropriate to say that you reflected on what happened and decided how you would tackle the problem next time

If your answer includes at least the first four of these points you will be providing what they want. Omit them at your peril.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Application forms often ask about strengths and weaknesses. Most people have little difficulty with strengths but struggle with weaknesses. Never give one-word answers. Try to suggest situations where your strengths were employed.

We all have weaknesses but so many people say that they are perfectionists that employers get tired of this response. Think of your weaknesses as areas for development. Consider also your personality. Extroverts are good at talking but often speak before thinking things through. Introverts reflect of issues but are often not good at communicating their thoughts. If your attention to detail is good you may need to remind yourself of the big picture, the overview. But those with a vision of where they want to get often find it hard to attend to the detail.

Odd Questions

‘If you were stranded on a desert island what two things would you want to take?' This question is currently being asked on an application form. Employers often ask such questions to see if you have ideas and can express them lucidly in prose. Alternatively they may ask about your knowledge of current affairs. If the firm is listed on the stock exchange know their recent share price history. Consider how the current economic situation will affect their business.

The Catch-all Question

Forms often have a question that says ‘If there is any other information you wish to give put it here'. You are under no obligation to answer this question but cannot subsequently complain that you were not given the opportunity to mention something.

Monitoring Questions

Inevitably most forms have a list of standard questions relating to ethnic background, health, disability, criminal records, and gender. Some are designed to defend the organisation from accusations of discrimination. Others may have legal significance.

Referees

Choose referees who you know will say good things about you. Academics like academic referees and business people prefer those from a commercial background. Don't use relatives.

And Finally...

• Never tell a lie. You could be sacked.
• Include only items you can defend or speak about at interview.
• Before you press the send button print a copy for future reference.
• Get someone else to read it to discover any mistakes or typos.

CVs AND COVER LETTERS

How to write a CV

What is a CV?
CV stands for curriculum vitae, which means a brief account of your career. CVs are used to explain to recruiters what you can do and what you have done, so a good CV looks forwards as well as accounts for what you did in the past.

A CV should present your knowledge, learning, skills and competencies in a positive, honest way. Despite what you might have seen on The Apprentice, falsifying information on a CV gets you nowhere.

What should I include in a CV?
A CV needs to include enough information for the recruiter to decide whether you are likely to be a suitable candidate, so you should include:

• contact details - name, address, mobile phone number, email address;
• knowledge - educational or professional qualifications, dates of institutions attended;
• skills and competencies - ability to work in a team, manage customers, specific IT skills, level of responsibility;
• work-related experiences - periods of paid or unpaid work, previous employers, job titles, examples of tasks;
• referees - two people who can comment on your paid or unpaid work.

It's important to tailor your CV to the needs of the recruiter and the particular job. So, if there is a job specification or job description, show how you are a good fit by giving examples of how your experience, knowledge and skills fit the requirements of the job, paying particular attention to the ones marked 'essential'.

If you list your previous jobs and there is a gap between them, it's often best to explain why. An unexplained gap can be interpreted adversely.

Reasons for gaps may include:

• contract ended;
• left to continue full-time education;
• took a career break to raise a family;
• made redundant.

How long should a CV be?
Ideally, a CV should be no longer than two sides of A4. Overlong CVs may not be read to the end or at all.

Do I need to include a personal summary?
It's not essential and choosing whether or not to add one to your CV comes down to personal choice. If you do decide to include one it should ideally be no more than four lines long and follow immediately after your personal details at the top of your CV.
Personal summaries should be written in strong, positive language and include information on who you are, what skills you can offer and generally what you are looking for in your next role.

Do I list work experience or education first?
This depends on the type of CV you are creating and how much work experience you have. If you have recently graduated and don't have much work experience it is probably best to start with your education.

Should I include hobbies in my CV?
It's not necessary to include hobbies in a CV but if you do, use them as examples of specific achievements, such as supervision of teams, organisation of rotas, collation and analysis of documents, etc.

How should I present my CV?
Aim to put your most attractive feature towards the beginning of your CV where it will be noticed by a recruiter. Similarly, construct a strong finish with a closing remark that is positive and enthusiastic.
Don't be tempted to keep the length of your CV under control by using a small font or closely packed lines of text. Instead arrange text with space around it. Use tables or text boxes and an easy to read font such as Arial or Verdana to ensure a clear layout; use bold font and capitals sparingly and avoid the use of underline.
If you're not a confident speller, have your CV checked by someone you trust. Often computerised spellchecks don't pick up every error.
If you need to post a hard copy of your CV, use good quality paper, staple rather than clip pages together and use an envelope large enough to keep the CV flat in transit. Unless you are advised otherwise by the recruiter, your CV should be accompanied by a cover letter.

Do I need to write a cover letter?
Yes, a cover letter will enable you to further tailor your comments to the requirements of the job role. It also helps to highlight any aspect that you want to draw to the attention of the recruiter.