5 Tips for Securing a Sustainable Job

With the growing global concern for sustainability, there has never been a better time to pursue a career in this field. However, the path to finding a sustainable job can be uncertain, especially if you are new to the field. In this article, we'll provide you with the tips you need to get started.

The path to acquiring a sustainable job is unique for everyone. Not only because of your own career background and skill sets, but also because of the broadness of sustainability. In the broadest sense of its definition, global sustainability means fulfilling the needs of today without compromising the needs of future generations. This means that engaging in policy making to address poverty is already considered a sustainable job (compared to the more obvious ‘green jobs’ such as a climate scientist).

Before you begin, it's important to have a clear understanding of what a sustainable job means. Sustainability is a broad term that encompasses environmental, social, and economic aspects. This opens up a ton of career possibilities! You could work in fields like renewable energy, green building, sustainable agriculture, waste management, sustainable finance, and many more. Whether you want to work in the public sector, a non-profit, or a private company, there's likely a sustainable job that matches your skills and passions. You could be a sustainability consultant, a green product designer, a renewable energy engineer, a sustainable tourism professional, or anything in between! The demand for sustainability solutions is growing, so the job market is always expanding.

Also, it's important to ensure you have the right foundation to begin with. This includes having a clear idea of the type of job you want to pursue, along with the relevant education and experience. It's also essential to understand your motivation for pursuing a sustainable career, as showing your genuine interest can score you big points during a job interview.

5 tips to get a sustainable job

1. Get a clear understanding of sustainability. It's crucial that you have a good grasp of what sustainability means and the different aspects involved. This will help you to communicate your interest and knowledge during a job interview.
2. Decide on the area you want to work in. There are many topics within sustainability, such as climate action, health and wellbeing, education and food. The 17 sustainable development goals set by the United Nations can be a useful guide in deciding which area you want to work in.
3. Build your network and experience. Network with professionals in the sustainability field by attending events and participating in online forums. This will give you the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals and potentially open up new job opportunities. In addition, having practical experience and involvement in sustainability projects can set you apart from other job seekers. This could include volunteer work, starting your own sustainability project, or joining a sustainability group at your current workplace. If you're still a student, you can also start building your experience by joining a sustainable society, choosing the right internship, or volunteering.
4. Start your job search. A great place to start is Greendeed, where all the job listings are categorized by the 17 sustainable development goals. When you find a job you like, research the company and its sustainability efforts. This information can be useful when writing your cover letter and preparing for an interview.
5. Be persistent and patient. Sustainability is a growing field, and the number of jobs is increasing rapidly. If your dream job doesn't exist yet, consider reaching out to your favorite company and applying via an open solicitation. Remember to be patient and persistent, and to align your passions with sustainability. When applying somewhere, make sure to highlight your passion for sustainability in your resume and cover letter, and be specific about how your skills and experience align with the requirements of the job you're applying for.

In conclusion, finding a sustainable job requires effort and time, but it's a worthwhile journey. By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to securing a sustainable career that you're passionate about.