5 Skills anyone applying for NGO jobs in Nigeria must have

If you are looking for a rewarding career in the non-governmental sector, you might be wondering what skills you need to stand out from the crowd. After all, NGOs are not just about doing good deeds, they are also about being effective and efficient in achieving their goals. So, what are the top five skills that anyone applying for NGO jobs in Nigeria must have? Here is a list that might surprise you:

1. Humor. Yes, you read that right. Humor is a skill that can help you cope with the challenges and frustrations of working in an NGO. Whether it is dealing with bureaucracy, corruption, or lack of resources, humor can help you keep your sanity and morale high. Humor can also help you build rapport with your colleagues, partners, and beneficiaries, and diffuse tense situations. So, if you can crack a joke or laugh at yourself, you are already ahead of the game.

2. Creativity. Working in an NGO requires you to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions to complex problems. You might have to design a project with limited funds, find new ways to reach your target audience or adapt to changing circumstances on the ground. Creativity can help you overcome these challenges and make your work more impactful and sustainable.

3. Flexibility. Another skill that is essential for NGO workers is flexibility. You might have to work in different locations, cultures, and contexts, and deal with unexpected situations and emergencies. You might have to change your plans, priorities, or strategies at short notice, or work with different teams and stakeholders. Flexibility can help you cope with these changes and adjust to new realities without losing your focus or motivation.

4. Communication. Communication is a key skill for any job, but especially for NGO jobs. You might have to communicate with different audiences, such as donors, government officials, media, or community members, and use different channels and formats, such as reports, presentations, social media, or podcasts. Communication can help you convey your message clearly and persuasively, build trust and credibility, and influence decision-makers and public opinion.

5. Passion. Last but not least, passion is a skill that can make a difference in your NGO career. Passion is what drives you to work for a cause that you care about and believe in. Passion is what motivates you to go the extra mile and overcome the obstacles and challenges that you face. Passion is what inspires you to learn new skills and grow as a professional and as a person.

So, there you have it: five skills that anyone applying for NGO jobs in Nigeria must have.

Of course, there are many other skills that are important for NGO workers, such as leadership, teamwork, or analytical thinking, but these five are the ones that can set you apart from the rest. If you have these skills or are willing to develop them, then you are ready to embark on an exciting and fulfilling journey in the NGO sector.

Grace to you!