Building your career in Human Rights Claire Leslie – Senior Careers Consultant

Aims: Think about what working in Human Rights means to you Think about the attributes you might need for a career in this area Understand what experience might be relevant to help get a job in Human Rights Know where to look for possible opportunities Be able to put together a speculative cover letter

First thoughts on human rights.. What is Human Rights? You might want to look at Human Rights in a broad context first. rights/ ep/30/list-thinktanks-uk

What do you need to succeed in Human Rights? Resilience Determination Ability to think laterally Patience Personal Profile in the field Financial resources? Luck!

How can you raise your Human Rights profile? Engage with the debate! Blog Write Comment Volunteer Network Face to face Through LinkedIn Attend events

Sell your experience Expect to have to apply for jobs but try to know what’s “out there”! Use CAR(E)

Use LinkedIn My profile Search for Human Rights jobs

You might need to apply speculatively.. How will you do it? Call up? Send an ? Approach via Facebook or LinkedIn Send a CV and cover letter

Where can you find opportunities? Many small organisations are involved in the field

How should you structure a covering letter? Format – names and addresses Yours sincerely/Yours faithfully Professional tone Correct spelling and grammar

Spend time to…. Understand what the role involves Understand what you would be doing – don’t just write about changing the world! Identify your relevant experiences, skills and strengths

One example of a website with vacancies! Working for an MP This is the Working for an MP website, a resource for anyone working for a British Member of Parliament or with an interest in how Parliament works. It’s much more than this!

Looking further… Human Dignity Trust

How to start? Dear Someone, To whom it may concern, Dear Recruitment Manager, Dear Jennifer, Dear Mr Brown,

Introduction Dear Dr Smith, I am writing to apply for the role of Communications Intern. I am currently studying for the LLM in International Development Law and Human Rights at the University of Warwick. In addition to my studies I have extensive experience of creative communications work and am an adept administrator able to show exceptional attention to detail. To whom it may concern, I want to apply for your intern post and hope that you will consider my application favourably.

1 st paragraph – WHY THEM Tell the employer why you want this job Why do you want to work for them – not just because they’re the ones advertising! Show motivation and enthusiasm Demonstrate that you understand what the job involves and have researched their organisation and the sector Avoid vague statements and blatant flattery Be specific and illustrate your opinions with some original points. And above all… MAKE IT PERSONAL!

What’s wrong with this? “I want to work for Human Dignity Trust because I am passionate about Human Rights and very keen to make a difference on the global stage as quickly as possible. I know that I can help you change people’s lives. I am particularly excited to be part of an organisation which is at the forefront of dealing with examples of homophobia.

2 nd paragraph – WHY YOU Why you are right for this job, in terms of skills, experience and personal attributes? Illustrate your unique selling points with three or four excellent examples. Use positive language and action words This is also the chance to deal directly and positively within any gaps or apparent weaknesses in your CV. And above all… USE THE JOB DESCRIPTION!

What’s wrong with this? I am perfect for this role as I am able to manage multiple tasks, resolve conflicts in a range of situations and collaborate effectively in teams and small groups. As I have become more focused on Human Rights as a career I have become more confident in my ability to present information clearly and effectively.

What skills are the company looking for you to cover in your 2 nd paragraph? Skills Passion for Human Rights Understanding of Media Relations Journalistic experience Administrative and IT skills Verbal Communication skills Ability to multi task Ability to take responsibility Research & organisation skills

Now map your skills… SkillWhere did you acquire it Passion for Human Rights Understanding of Media Relations Journalistic experience Administrative and IT skills Verbal Communication skills Ability to multi task Ability to take responsibility Research & organisation skills

How to end? Very simple. “I very much hope to hear from you further.” Sign off in the correct way

Other top tips If you meet the employer, consider sending the cover letter within 1-2 days Get it proofed before you send it off Make it look professional Show you have done your research Follow up

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