How Diplomats Get Their Jobs

How Diplomats Get Their Jobs

Hey Travelers! People often ask me, “Do Career Development Officers (CDOs), assign you to a country that speaks the language you know?” In this post, we are going to briefly cover how diplomats get their jobs. Please note this is not a comprehensive post, but it should give you an idea of how job placements work in the Foreign Service.

How Diplomats Get Their Jobs: Needs Of The Service

The answer depends on several factors. One of them is the needs of the service. If there is a requirement, you might be directed to serve in a country where you speak the language.

For instance, colleagues speaking “critical languages” often know their next assignment early on. Career Development Officers direct diplomats to countries where they speak these critical languages.

If you take anything from the post is that you must be willing to serve worldwide and whatever you do in the Foreign Service is dependent on the needs of the Service.

Timing

Another crucial factor is timing. Your training schedule must align, or lack thereof, with the vacancy at an Embassy or Consulate.

Family and Medical Considerations

Family and medical considerations also play a role. Sometimes, family or medical situations may limit your ability to serve in a specific country.

I hope this post helps! If you would like me to cover my experience bidding in the Foreign Service, let me know in the comment section below.

In Case You’ve Missed It, Check Out

Hey Ms. Traveler Newsletter
Check Out Hey Ms. Traveler On YouTube
Hey Ms. Traveler’s FREE Travel E-Course
What Do Diplomats Do?
Top Career Tips From A Senior Diplomat
What Does The Secretary of State Do?
My First Tour As A Diplomat | What It Was Like
Becoming a Pilot | Black Women Share Their Stories
How I Became A U.S. Diplomat