Application Guide

How to Apply for Business Development Intern (Unpaid)

at STOOS CONSULTING

🏢 About STOOS CONSULTING

STOOS CONSULTING is unique as a specialized media and communication firm focused on peacebuilding and amplifying marginalized voices in conflict-affected Middle Eastern communities, rather than commercial clients. Working here offers meaningful impact by contributing to humanitarian and development projects with major international organizations. Their 2021 founding and Istanbul base provide a dynamic, mission-driven environment for those passionate about social change through communication.

About This Role

This internship involves hands-on support preparing bids and proposals for media/communication services (videography, photography, campaigns) targeting I/NGOs, UN agencies, and consulting institutions across the MENA region. You'll directly contribute to securing projects that raise awareness and support peacebuilding, gaining practical experience in international development business development. The role offers exposure to multi-country proposals and the entire bid lifecycle from concept to submission.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve researching upcoming tenders from UN agencies, drafting sections of a photography/videography proposal for a Syrian refugee awareness campaign, and coordinating with team members on bid submission deadlines. You'll likely analyze client requirements, adapt previous proposal templates to new contexts, and ensure all documents meet strict formatting and content guidelines before submission.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who STOOS CONSULTING Is Looking For

  • Has advanced English writing skills specifically for business development documents (proposals, bids, concept notes) with demonstrated ability to craft persuasive, structured arguments
  • Possesses research and analytical skills to understand MENA regional contexts and tailor proposals to conflict-affected communities' needs
  • Shows genuine interest in humanitarian/development sectors through coursework, volunteer work, or previous exposure to I/NGO environments
  • Arabic language skills (even basic) would be particularly valuable for understanding regional nuances and client needs

📝 Tips for Applying to STOOS CONSULTING

1

Include a writing sample demonstrating business development writing (e.g., a mock proposal, grant application, or persuasive business document) rather than academic essays

2

Highlight any MENA regional knowledge or experience, even if through coursework, language study, or cultural exposure

3

Mention specific media/communication services from the job description (videography, photography, training programs) you have skills or interest in

4

Address the unpaid nature proactively by explaining what you hope to gain and how you'll manage the commitment

5

Show you've researched STOOS's specific projects or clients by referencing their focus areas in your application materials

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Demonstrate understanding of STOOS's mission by connecting your values to their peacebuilding and marginalized community focus", "Provide concrete examples of your writing/editorial skills relevant to bids and proposals (mention specific types of documents you've worked on)", "Explain why you're specifically interested in business development for humanitarian/development sectors rather than corporate settings", 'Highlight any organizational systems you use to manage details and deadlines, crucial for tender submissions']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → STOOS's specific past or current projects (look for case studies or client mentions on their website/social media)
  • → Key clients in I/NGO, UN, and consulting sectors they likely target (UNDP, UNICEF, Save the Children, etc.) and their procurement processes
  • → Current humanitarian/development issues in the MENA region they might address through communication campaigns
  • → Media for peacebuilding approaches and how communication supports marginalized communities in conflict zones
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💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you approach researching and writing a proposal for a communication campaign in a conflict-affected community you're unfamiliar with?
2 What experience do you have with the specific media services mentioned (videography, photography, graphic design, web design, training) even if indirectly?
3 How would you ensure attention to detail when preparing a complex bid with multiple components and strict submission requirements?
4 Can you describe a time you had to communicate complex information persuasively in writing?
5 Why are you interested in an unpaid internship with STOOS specifically, and what do you hope to gain?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Generic applications that don't mention STOOS's specific humanitarian focus or MENA regional work
  • Focusing only on corporate business development experience without connecting it to nonprofit/development contexts
  • Failing to address the unpaid nature or appearing unprepared to discuss what you'll gain from the experience

📅 Application Timeline

⏰ Deadline: March 19, 2026

We recommend applying at least a few days early to avoid last-minute technical issues.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to STOOS CONSULTING!

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