Top Skills NGOs Look for in Remote Candidates (And How to Get Them)

Working Remotely in the Nonprofit Sector Requires More Than Just a Laptop

Remote NGO work has its unique challenges — and employers are selective. Whether it’s a UN agency, a humanitarian organization, or a local nonprofit, they look for specific skills beyond technical expertise.

 1. Strong Communication Skills

Since most NGO teams are global and dispersed, remote professionals must master asynchronous communication — email, Slack, Notion, Teams. Writing clearly and speaking confidently across cultures is key.

How to build it:

• Take free writing courses (like on Coursera or HubSpot)

• Practice structured status updates

• Record video briefs to summarize work

 2. Project Management

Nonprofits love candidates who can manage time, deliver independently, and coordinate with multiple stakeholders. Tools like Trello, Asana, and ClickUp are often used.

How to build it:

• Learn project tracking using digital tools

• Volunteer for online project coordination roles

• Get certified (Google Project Management, PMP, etc.)

 3. Cross-Cultural Competence

NGOs operate across regions — so cultural sensitivity is essential. Knowing how to navigate different working styles, norms, and values makes you a more effective team member.

How to build it:

• Volunteer with international communities online

• Attend webinars or cultural exchange programs

• Read case studies on global development work

 4. Digital Literacy

Even if your role isn’t technical, you’ll likely use CRMs, remote collaboration tools, file sharing systems, or data dashboards.

How to build it:

• Master tools like Zoom, Google Drive, Airtable, and SharePoint

• Take courses on digital tools used in the nonprofit world

• Get comfortable with both low- and high-bandwidth tools

 5. Self-Motivation and Accountability

NGOs want to know: can you manage your tasks without constant supervision? Can you be trusted to deliver results while working from home?

How to build it:

• Use productivity systems like GTD or time-blocking

• Track your own deliverables with regular reviews

• Join online accountability groups for freelancers

 Final Tip: Add Your Skills to Your NGO-Focused Resume

Once you’ve built these skills, don’t forget to reflect them in your CV. Mention tools, scenarios, and results that demonstrate your readiness for remote work in the development sector.