WHOUnknownPolicy & Governance

Preparation Guide

SSA - NCD Coordinator — WHO

13 days until deadline (1 June 2026)

Expected Timeline

Based on the position grade (unknown), contract type (Personnel Services Agreement), and WHO's typical recruitment process.

Apply13d left
Screening2-4 weeks
Assessment2-4 weeks
References1-2 weeks
Offer2-4 weeks
Estimated total process: 2-4 months

Note: UN recruitment timelines vary significantly. Some positions may take longer due to roster reviews, budget approvals, or geographic representation considerations.

Assessment Predictor

Based on the grade level, contract type, and position profile, expect the following evaluations:

Written TestCompetency-Based InterviewTechnical InterviewPresentation / Case StudyLanguage Assessment
Competency-Based Interview (CBI)

The UN uses the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Prepare 2-3 concrete examples for each competency listed below. Focus on recent professional experiences (last 5 years).

Written Assessment

Typically a timed exercise (1-2 hours) testing analytical writing, policy analysis, or technical knowledge relevant to the role. Practice writing concise, structured responses under time pressure.

Competency Breakdown

These competencies were extracted from the vacancy announcement. Prepare STAR-format examples for each.

CoreCommunication
STAR Method Prompt:Describe a time when you had to convey complex technical information to a non-specialist audience. How did you adapt your message?
CoreIntegrity
STAR Method Prompt:Describe a situation where you had to make an ethical decision under pressure.
FunctionalNegotiation
STAR Method Prompt:Give an example of a negotiation where you reached a mutually beneficial outcome.
FunctionalAdvocacy
FunctionalResource Mobilization
FunctionalMonitoring and Evaluation
FunctionalReport Writing
FunctionalCapacity Building
STAR Method Prompt:Describe a situation where you built the capacity of colleagues or partners.
FunctionalCoordination
STAR Method Prompt:Tell us about a time when you coordinated activities across multiple teams or organizations.

Required Skills & Technical Knowledge

DesignCapacity BuildingMonitoring and EvaluationMicrosoft OfficeProcurementPublic HealthHealth PolicyClimate ChangeProgram ImplementationPolicy and Strategy DevelopmentMedicineA Related FieldWith Experience Working At The National LevelStakeholder EngagementMulti Sectoral Co-ordinationEngineering DesignDigitalWeb-based SystemsSurvey ToolsReport Writing

Position Profile

Grade—
SeniorityUnknown
Role TypePolicy & Governance
ContractPersonnel Services Agreement
EducationMaster's
Experience4-6 years
LanguagesEnglish
View full vacancy Apply now

Preparation Checklist

  • Prepare 2-3 STAR stories for each competency (9 total)
  • Research WHO's latest strategic plan and priorities
  • Prepare a concise 2-minute "Tell me about yourself" response
  • Practice analytical writing under time pressure (1-2 hours)
  • Read recent news and developments about WHO
  • Prepare 3-4 questions to ask the interview panel
  • Review the UN common system values and organizational culture

Pro Tips

  • UN interviews are competency-based — they ask for specific examples, not hypothetical scenarios.
  • Use the STAR method: Situation → Task → Action → Result.
  • Show how your experience aligns with the UN values: integrity, professionalism, respect for diversity.
  • Be specific and quantify your achievements when possible.
  • Mention experience working in multicultural environments — it's highly valued.