What is your motivation for applying to this position? How to answer the most common UN interview questions?
What is your motivation for applying to this position? How to answer the most common UN interview questions?
Getting shortlisted for a UN job is an achievement in itself—but acing the competency-based interview is where the real challenge begins. UN interviews are not theoretical or personality-based—they are structured to assess how your past experiences demonstrate the core competencies and values of the United Nations!
Let’s break it down step-by-step, starting with one of the most common and important competency-based questions:
🗣️ Question: "What is your motivation for applying to this position?"
Why this question matters
This isn’t just about why you want the job — it’s your opportunity to show:
Alignment with the UN’s core values
Awareness of the UN’s current priorities, SDGs and initiatives
A genuine connection to the mission of the agency or department you are applying for
That you understand the competencies and key tasks expected in the specific role!
🌍 How to Structure Your Answer:
Use a modified STAR or VACC format to stay focused:
V – Values (link to UN Core Values: Integrity, Professionalism, Respect for Diversity)
A – Alignment (align your background with the job and the organization’s mission)
C – Contribution (how you will add value in this specific role)
C – Context (connect to current UN priorities or SDGs if possible)
Ideal Length: 2–3 minutes spoken or 300–400 words written. Stay concise, focused, and authentic.
🎯 Sample Answer:
"My motivation to apply for this role stems from a long-standing commitment to advancing global development through inclusive, evidence-based policy. Over the past 10 years, I have worked with international partners and donors—such as USAID—to support programmes aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in areas like health, gender equality, and climate resilience.
This role directly aligns with my values of integrity, professionalism, and respect for diversity. I’m especially drawn to how the [agency or department] emphasizes cross-sector collaboration and innovation in development delivery. My background in partnership building, programme design, and resource mobilization would allow me to contribute meaningfully to current UN initiatives, such as the [e.g., UN 2.0 transformation agenda or the Decade of Action on SDGs].
Joining this team would allow me not only to grow professionally, but also to make a direct impact through work that aligns with both my experience and personal mission."
Always link your examples to the competencies listed in the job posting. If it says “teamwork,” show teamwork. Make sure you demonstrate personal motivation, show awareness of the UN’s mandate and strategic direction and link to UN core values and competencies (e.g., teamwork, planning & organizing, accountability)