Competency based interviews are the standard selection methodology across the United Nations system. Whether you are applying to UNDP, UNICEF, WHO, WFP, or other UN entities, you should expect structured behavioral questions designed to assess how you have demonstrated specific competencies in real situations.
Unlike traditional interviews that focus heavily on technical knowledge, competency based interviews evaluate how you think, act, and deliver results in complex institutional environments.
What Is a Competency Based Interview
A competency based interview assesses past behavior as the best predictor of future performance. Interview panels ask candidates to provide concrete examples of how they handled specific professional situations.
Most questions follow this structure:
Tell us about a time when you
Describe a situation where you
Give an example of how you handled
Candidates are expected to respond using the STAR method:
Situation
Task
Action
Result
The emphasis is on measurable outcomes, accountability, collaboration, and ethical conduct.
Why the UN Uses Competency Based Interviews
The UN operates in multicultural, politically sensitive, and resource constrained environments. Technical knowledge alone is insufficient. The system prioritizes professionals who can:
Deliver results under pressure
Work across diverse teams
Demonstrate integrity and neutrality
Adapt to changing contexts
Lead and coordinate effectively
Competencies are standardized to promote fairness, objectivity, and transparency in recruitment.
Core UN Competency Framework
The United Nations Secretariat competency framework typically includes:
Professionalism
Teamwork
Planning and organizing
Communication
Accountability
Leadership
Client orientation
Official UN Secretariat Competency Framework
https://careers.un.org/lbw/home.aspx?viewtype=CO
UNDP Competency Framework
UNDP emphasizes cross functional and technical competencies aligned with sustainable development and institutional strengthening.
UNDP Competency Framework
https://www.undp.org/sites/g/files/zskgke326/files/migration/undp/UNDP-Competency-Framework.pdf
UNICEF Competency Framework
UNICEF combines core values with core and functional competencies.
UNICEF Competency Framework
https://www.unicef.org/careers/sites/unicef.org.careers/files/UNICEF_Competency_Framework.pdf
WHO Global Competency Model
WHO integrates technical excellence with emergency response and global health governance capabilities.
WHO Global Competency Model
https://www.who.int/docs/default-source/careers/who-global-competency-model.pdf
WFP Leadership Framework
WFP focuses strongly on leadership behaviors and performance orientation.
WFP Leadership Framework
https://www.wfp.org/publications/wfp-leadership-framework
UNHCR Competency Framework
UNHCR prioritizes protection, field leadership, and humanitarian accountability.
UNHCR Competency Framework
https://www.unhcr.org/competency-framework.html
FAO Competency Framework
FAO aligns competencies with technical agriculture, food security, and systems governance.
FAO Competency Framework
https://www.fao.org/3/cb3643en/cb3643en.pdf
Common Competencies Assessed
Across agencies, you will frequently be assessed on:
Results orientation
Strategic thinking
Stakeholder engagement
Conflict management
Resource optimization
Ethics and integrity
Managing performance
Innovation
How to Prepare Strategically
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Study the job description carefully and identify required competencies.
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Prepare at least two strong examples per key competency.
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Quantify your results where possible.
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Demonstrate impact in resource constrained settings.
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Reflect on failures and lessons learned, not only successes.
In development contexts, panels look for candidates who can deliver measurable outcomes within limited budgets, navigate complex institutional environments, and strengthen systems rather than operate in silos.
Competency based interviews are not about theoretical answers. They are about evidence. The stronger your examples, the stronger your candidacy.
Preparation should be deliberate, structured, and aligned with the specific competency framework of the agency you are applying to.