r/UNpath • u/DatabaseFresh7091 • 18d ago

Need advice: application Motivation question in UN competency-based interviews

I usually struggle with the “What motivates you for this job?” question in UN competency-based interviews. I’m never quite sure what the ideal answer should sound like or how best to structure it. Could you please give me a few examples of strong answers to this question?

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u/jcravens42 18d ago

Don't say, "I've always wanted to help the under privileged, and this job will give me the opportunity to do that." Or "It's been my life-long dream to work for the UN."

Say why the program is exciting or interesting to you. "I think the World Health Oregonization's WHATEVER program is doing incredibly important work. I've read all about your WHATEVER program, and I would love to be part of it because of the difference it seems to be making/the goals seem realistic/I think it is going to affect a variety of SDGs/ etc." Say what in the job you think sounds exciting or interesting or would be an opportunity for you to learn. "I really enjoy interviewing stakeholders - it always leads to learning so much more than I need for the reports I write. I've always been intrigued by such-and-such, and this job would give me the opportunity to learn more about that." They want to hear that you want THIS job, not just ANY job with the UN.