Mid-career entry to national diplomacy

How to get in to national diplomatic service with experience

In this edition of the Gazette:

Direct entry to national diplomatic services, with quotes from readers who made it and links for action.

This series will explore several mid-career entry routes. Today’s isn’t the simplest. You must be a citizen of the country you wish to represent, pass rigorous security vetting, and face tough competition.

But professionals do enter mid-career. I was one, an engineer and consultant, serving in my first ambassadorial role 14 years after a first job in diplomacy.

“I came late [to the diplomatic service]… after a full career in the private sector” - Kari Macknight Dearborn

You too? Read 10 advantages below, 13 drawbacks I’ll update, and the series introduction in the 30 October Gazette.

This article explores 6 ways, with action links. Plus one curve ball.