International NGOs, especially the larger ones, know that the talent they are looking for can be based anywhere in the world, so they are increasingly offering remote positions. Headquarters are maintained but with teams working from a variety of places and time zones, as you can see looking at our jobs board.

Are you ready to work remotely for an NGO?

It requires certain qualities and skills to be successful. Here are some important qualities that can contribute to your effectiveness in a remote non-profit job:

• Self-motivation: Working remotely often means being responsible for managing your own time and tasks. You should be self-motivated and proactive in setting goals, prioritizing work, and meeting deadlines without constant supervision or direct oversight.
• Independence and autonomy: Remote work in an NGO setting often involves working independently and making decisions on your own. You should be comfortable taking initiative, solving problems, and making sound judgments without constant guidance.
• Excellent communication skills: Strong communication skills are essential for remote work. You should be able to articulate your thoughts clearly and effectively through written communication (emails, chat, project management tools etc.) and be comfortable using video conferencing platforms for virtual meetings and discussions. Active listening is also important to understand and respond appropriately to colleagues and stakeholders.
• Adaptability: Working remotely for an NGO may involve collaborating with a diverse team, possibly spread across different time zones and cultural backgrounds. Being adaptable and open to different work styles and perspectives is crucial for effective collaboration and building strong relationships with your colleagues.
• Organizational and time management skills: Remote work requires effective organization and time management to ensure productivity. You should be able to prioritize tasks, manage your workload efficiently, and maintain focus and discipline in a remote setting in order to meet deadlines.
• Tech savviness: Proficiency in using various communication and collaboration tools is essential for remote work. You should be comfortable with video conferencing platforms, project management tools, cloud storage solutions, and other relevant software or applications used by the NGO. Additionally, troubleshooting basic technical issues independently can be helpful.
• Passion for the NGO’s mission: Working for an NGO often involves contributing to a cause or mission that aligns with your values. Having a genuine passion and belief in the organization’s goals can provide you with the motivation and dedication needed to excel in a remote role.
• Cultural sensitivity: NGOs often work in diverse cultural contexts, either locally or internationally. Being culturally sensitive, respectful, and open-minded is important to collaborate effectively with individuals from different backgrounds and to adapt to varying work environments.

Remember that these qualities can be developed and strengthened over time. Being proactive in honing these skills, seeking feedback, and continuously learning will help you thrive in a remote role within an NGO and make a positive impact on the organization’s work.