Based on the flurry of applications we’ve received recently, lots of you have heard that we’ve been hiring (at the time of writing. If you’re reading this after January 2021, please check our vacancy page to see if we have any live roles). So, it’s safe to say I have recruitment on the brain at the moment!
Helping budding conservationists break into the sector is something we’re all passionate about. After all, we all had to get our first break too! Which is why we try to give help and advice where we can. We’ve previously given tips on how to get into marine conservation if you’re not a scientist and our Programmes Manager, Samantha Craven, took part in a webinar giving advice on how to get into the sector.
We often receive messages with questions about how to build a marine conservation career. And, today, we’re going to answer them for you. So, without further ado, here are some answers to our most commonly asked recruitment questions.
Are you recruiting?
The best way to find out is to check our vacancy page regularly.
Are you taking on any volunteers or interns?
We do sometimes take on volunteers or interns to support us in our work. You can check our vacancy page to see if we’re currently taking on this type of support.
How big is the organisation?
Reef-World is a small charity that packs a big punch when it comes to conservation impact. We currently (Jan 2021) have five full-time members of staff.
Where are you based?
Reef-World’s headquarters is in Dumaguete, the Philippines, and some of our team members work remotely from the UK. So we’re all very familiar with juggling time differences!
I’m looking for some work experience. Can I shadow your team?
Unfortunately, as a small charity, we’re currently unable to support work experience placements.
I’m coming to the Philippines on holiday and I wanted to help as a volunteer for a few weeks. Is this possible?
While we’re very grateful for people who are interested in supporting our work, unfortunately we don't have the capacity to train and take on short-term volunteers.
What type of experience do you require?
This will really depend on the specific vacancy so do make sure you read the job description carefully before applying.
If you’re in the early stages of your career and aren’t yet sure which type of skills you should focus on developing, have a think about where you hope to see your conservation career in the future. Being clear on your professional goals will help you determine which further skills or technical knowledge you need to develop. You can then try to find placements that will help you develop in these areas.
I don’t have the right qualifications for the job you’re currently recruiting for but I’d love to work for you. Can I still apply?
This is quite a common issue: people find an organisation they’d LOVE to work for but don’t meet the criteria for the specific role available. If you have some of the criteria outlined in the job description but not all of them, it might still be worth putting yourself forward: most people don’t fit the job spec 100%. But if you don’t have any of the “must-have” criteria, this role likely isn’t going to be a good fit for you. In this situation, my advice would be to wait for a position that’s more relevant to your skillset or get in touch to register your interest in a more relevant role if one comes up in future.
Should I send a cover letter?
Yes please. As you might imagine, we receive a high level of interest when we have job vacancies. Sending a tailored cover letter along with your CV is a great way to showcase why you think you’re right for the role. At Reef-World, we usually request cover letters as part of our application process so, if you just send your CV without one, you’re probably going to stand out… in the wrong way.
Do I need to have a marine biology degree to work for Reef-World?
No – I don’t! While an understanding of and passion for marine conservation are important, you don’t necessarily have to have a degree. Charities like Reef-World need staff with different skill sets: such as social media experience or IT capabilities. The skills required will depend on the specific role. Another reason why it’s important to read the job description thoroughly!
Can I work for Green Fins?
Not as such because Green Fins is an initiative rather than an organisation. Green Fins is coordinated globally by The Reef-World Foundation (in partnership with the UN Environment Programme) with all Green Fins countries managed independently by our local implementing partners. For the government or NGO staff, managing the Green Fins programme is one element of their role. This is why you won’t tend to see specific positions at Green Fins advertised.
What’s your top tip for applicants?
I’ve said it before but I’ll say it again. Read the job description thoroughly! Really. It sounds like an obvious one but roles in marine conservation are really competitive and if you don’t fulfil any criteria requested as part of the application, you’re putting yourself at a disadvantage. For example, if the job specification asks you to send a cover letter outlining why you’re right for the role, don’t just send your CV with no cover letter. There will be lots of other candidates who have followed the instructions and you want to make sure you have the best chance of standing out!
