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How Do I Become A Monitoring & Evaluation Specialist?

M&E is an emerging field in international development. It is essential for the success of any project!

M&E specialists oversee and evaluate the projects and ensure everything goes as planned within a given time.

Having Monitoring & Evaluation skills leads to a range of potential career options and one may become a specialist in a specific sector.

The advantage of a career in M&E is its applicability across a range of areas of work and study.

The field is new and the demand for workers in this area is high while the supply is pretty low. This means that if you fulfill the needs and requirements of M&E, you are highly likely to get a position in the area of work.

So, how can you initiate your career and be a M&E specialist in a competitive job market?

Here are 6 ways:

1. Learn by Inquiring More

M&E personnel should be inquisitive to seek answers to various questions that are related to the monitoring and evaluation.  Asking questions helps you to learn and avoid the mistakes which are likely to be encountered during monitoring and evaluation of projects. By asking the right questions you can predict the future of the projects, judge, and make the right decisions.

2. Develop Your Learning Habit

Use online materials to learn more about monitoring and evaluation. Read materials that are relevant to the field. Find out more information about development projects and familiarize yourself with methods and best practices.

3. Have the Required Qualifications

When employers are recruiting a M&E specialist they go for someone with technical know-how. You should build on your quantitative skills which include data analysis and interpretation.

Understand the use of software for example SPSS and STATA as this will make the work easier. You can sign-up for a Monitoring & Evaluation certificate course and explore options that will equip you with the right quantitative skills and qualifications.

4. Network with Professionals In The Field

Build connections with people who have been in the field for you to gain knowledge and advice. Look for a mentor who can guide you and learn from them on how they have made it in the field. Connecting with others provides you with an opportunity to observe and learn from their experience. You can network with experienced professionals via social media platforms or conferences.

5. Gather Training and Experience

Look for opportunities that will expand your experience for example volunteering as this will provide a great opportunity to learn.

6. Keep Up-To-Date With The Sector

The industry keeps evolving with new approaches and software changing how work is done. It is therefore important to keep updated through courses and constant studying. Join associations that foster dialogue among the field’s professionals as it is a good way to increase your knowledge and understanding of trends in the sector.

Conclusion

A career in monitoring and evaluation is a great choice for people with a strong interest in the non-profit sector and international development. Most monitoring and evaluation vacancies usually insist that the ideal applicant should have at least 2 years of experience and for you to be a M&E specialist you should have a strong research background.

Want to take your monitoring and evaluation to the next level?

Enroll in this Monitoring & Evaluation Certificate Course Before the Year Ends!