20 United Nations Foundation Interview Questions and Answers

The United Nations Foundation is a unique international organization that helps to maintain peace and security around the world. If you’re interested in working for the UN, then you’ll need to be prepared for their interview process. In this article, we’ll give you an overview of the UN’s interview process and some specific questions that you might be asked.

United Nations Foundation Interview Process

The interview process at United Nations Foundation can be long and difficult, with some candidates reporting that it took several months to hear back after their initial interview. The process often includes multiple rounds of interviews, as well as a writing assignment and timed skill assessment. Some positions may also require a foreign language proficiency test.

1. What do you think are the most pressing issues facing the United Nations today?

This question can help interviewers understand your knowledge of the United Nations and its current issues. Use this opportunity to show that you are aware of what’s happening in the world today, as well as how it relates to the UN.

Example: “I think one of the most pressing issues facing the UN is climate change. The organization has been working for years on finding ways to reduce carbon emissions and protect our planet from further damage. I believe we need to find more sustainable methods of energy production and transportation if we want to ensure a healthy future for generations to come.”

2. Why does gender equality matter to you?

The United Nations Foundation is a nonprofit organization that works to promote gender equality and women’s rights. This question helps the interviewer assess your commitment to this cause. Use examples from your past experience or explain why you care about gender equality.

Example: “Gender equality matters to me because I believe it’s an important part of creating a more peaceful world. In my last job, I worked with a non-profit organization that helped victims of domestic violence. Many of these women were in abusive relationships because they didn’t have access to education or jobs. When we provided them with resources like education and employment opportunities, many of them were able to leave their abusive partners.”

3. How would you encourage more women in leadership positions and how will that benefit society as a whole?

The United Nations Foundation is a nonprofit organization that aims to promote peace and prosperity through the use of sustainable development. The foundation also encourages gender equality, which is why this question may be asked during an interview. Your answer should show your commitment to women’s rights and how you would encourage more women in leadership positions.

Example: “I believe that women are just as capable as men when it comes to leading organizations or countries. I would start by encouraging young girls to pursue STEM-related careers so they can become leaders in their respective fields. This will help them gain confidence and inspire other women to do the same.”

4. Do you have experience with social media marketing?

The United Nations Foundation is a nonprofit organization that relies on social media to promote its mission. The foundation uses Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to share information about the UN’s work in international development and peacekeeping efforts.

Example: “I have experience with social media marketing through my previous role as an online community manager for a local restaurant chain. I created content for our company’s website and social media accounts, including Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. I also monitored these channels for customer feedback and responded to comments and questions within 24 hours.”

5. Tell me about a time where you worked on a project from start to finish. What were your responsibilities throughout the process?

This question is a great way to show your ability to work on a team and complete projects. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention the steps you took in completing the project and what skills you used throughout the process.

Example: “In my last role as an event planner, I worked with a large group of people to plan a major fundraising event for our organization. We started by brainstorming ideas for the theme of the event and how we could incorporate that into the decorations, food and entertainment. Then, we planned out all of the details including when each aspect would take place during the event.”

6. In what ways can you contribute to our team’s success?

This question is an opportunity to show your enthusiasm for the role and how you can contribute to the organization’s success. Your answer should include examples of how you have contributed to a team in the past, such as through collaboration or leadership.

Example: “I am passionate about this organization’s mission and believe I can make valuable contributions to its success. In my previous position, I led a team that raised $100,000 for UNICEF by organizing fundraising events at local businesses. This was a great example of how one person can make a difference.”

7. Describe a time when you had to deal with an angry customer or client, how did you handle it?

This question is an opportunity to show your problem-solving and conflict resolution skills. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe a specific situation where you had to deal with an angry customer or client and how you resolved the issue.

Example: “When I worked as a sales associate at a clothing store, I once had a customer who was upset because she thought we were out of her size in one of our new arrivals. After explaining that we did have her size but it was on display in another section of the store, she still seemed unhappy. I then offered to hold the item for her until she could come back to the store to try it on. She agreed and left the store satisfied.”

8. Have you ever had any difficulty working with other members of your team?

This question can help interviewers understand how you work with others and your ability to collaborate. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a specific situation where you had to work with someone who was different from you or had a different opinion than you did.

Example: “I once worked on a project with a team of people that were all very similar in their opinions and ideas. This made it difficult for us to come up with new solutions when we encountered problems. I spoke with my supervisor about the issue and they helped me find another person on the team who had a different perspective. After talking with them, we were able to come up with more creative solutions.”

9. Would you be comfortable traveling for work?

The United Nations Foundation is a global organization that requires its employees to travel for work. This question helps employers determine if you are comfortable with this aspect of the job and how often you would need to travel. In your answer, explain why you feel prepared to travel for work and what steps you have taken to prepare yourself for this responsibility.

Example: “I am very excited about the opportunity to work for an international organization like the United Nations Foundation. I understand that traveling for work will be part of my responsibilities as an employee here. I have always been interested in foreign cultures and languages, so I have taken several classes on these subjects over the past few years. I also plan to take some additional language courses online before starting this position.”

10. Can you tell us about a time when you went above and beyond for a customer or client?

This question is a great way to show your dedication and willingness to help others. When answering this question, it can be helpful to think of a time when you helped someone who wasn’t expecting it or didn’t know how to ask for help.

Example: “When I was working as an administrative assistant at my previous job, one of the company’s clients called in asking for help with their computer. They were having trouble connecting to the internet and couldn’t figure out why. I offered to come over to their office and fix the problem. After looking at the issue, I realized that they had forgotten to plug in their router. Once I fixed the problem, I made sure to explain everything to them so they could avoid future issues.”

11. What is your previous experience with internships?

The United Nations Foundation is a great place to gain experience in the field of international relations. The foundation offers internships for students who are interested in working with them, and your interviewer may ask you this question to learn more about your internship history. To answer this question effectively, describe one or two internships that helped you develop skills relevant to the position.

Example: “I have had three internships so far, all of which were at local non-profit organizations. My first internship was at an animal shelter where I learned how to care for animals and interact with people. In my second internship, I worked as a volunteer at a hospital where I gained valuable medical knowledge and developed communication skills. My third internship was at a community center where I learned how to organize events and work with volunteers.”

12. Are you familiar with UNICEF’s mission and goals?

The United Nations Foundation is a nonprofit organization that supports the UNICEF’s mission to improve the lives of children around the world. Interviewers may ask this question to see if you have experience working with or for nonprofits and how your past experiences align with their goals. In your answer, try to explain why you are passionate about helping children and what you hope to achieve through your work at the foundation.

Example: “I am familiar with UNICEF’s mission and goals because I worked as an intern for them last summer. My internship was part of my degree program, but it also helped me decide that I want to pursue a career in international development. I think the work they do is so important, especially when it comes to providing clean water and food to impoverished areas. I would love to continue supporting their efforts.”

13. What specific skills are you looking to develop during your internship?

This question is an opportunity to show the interviewer that you are eager to learn and develop your skills. You can answer this question by mentioning a skill you would like to improve or something you want to try for the first time.

Example: “I am looking forward to learning more about how to communicate effectively with people from different backgrounds. I have always been interested in international relations, so I think it will be interesting to see what goes on behind the scenes at the United Nations.”

14. If given the opportunity to travel for a few months, what country would you visit?

This question is a great way to learn more about your potential future colleague. It also allows you to share some of your travel experiences and interests with the interviewer. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a country that has unique or interesting features.

Example: “If I were given the opportunity to travel for a few months, I would visit Iceland. I’ve always been fascinated by the Northern Lights, and I think it would be an amazing experience to see them in person. I have heard that there are many tours available where you can view the lights while learning about the culture of the country.”

15. What motivates you to come into work each day?

This question can help the interviewer get to know you as a person and understand what drives your passion for this role. Your answer should reflect your personal values, but it can also be an opportunity to talk about how you hope to make a difference in the world through your work.

Example: “I am motivated by my desire to see our planet become a better place. I believe that we are all interconnected, so when one person is suffering, we are all suffering. I want to use my skills to create positive change in the world, and I think working at UNF would give me the chance to do just that.”

16. What kind of volunteer projects have you participated in in the past?

This question is a great way to show the interviewer that you have experience working with others and helping those in need. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention any volunteer projects you’ve participated in that are similar to the role you’re interviewing for.

Example: “In my hometown, I volunteered at a local food bank where I helped sort donations and assisted customers who came into the facility. This was an extremely rewarding experience because I got to help people in need while also learning valuable organizational skills.”

17. Can you describe a situation where you had to manage many different tasks at once?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you manage your time and prioritize tasks. Use examples from previous work experiences to highlight your ability to multitask, stay organized and meet deadlines.

Example: “In my last role as a marketing specialist for a small business, I had to handle multiple projects at once while also managing client expectations. One of my clients was looking for ways to increase their online presence through social media platforms. I created an action plan that included creating new content on our website, developing a social media strategy and implementing SEO strategies to improve search engine rankings. This helped us reach more customers and grow our business.”

18. Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10 years?

This question is a great way to learn more about your future goals and aspirations. It can also help the interviewer get an idea of how long you plan on staying with their organization. When answering this question, it’s important to be honest and realistic.

Example: “I see myself in a management role at United Nations Foundation within five years. I would like to continue my education and earn a master’s degree in international relations so that I am prepared for this promotion. In 10 years, I hope to have earned my Ph.D. and become a professor at a university.”

19. Are you willing to relocate?

The United Nations Foundation is a global organization, and the interviewer may want to know if you’re willing to relocate for this role. If you are, explain why. If not, explain what your plans would be if you were offered the job.

Example: “I am open to relocating as long as my family can come with me. I have lived in many different places throughout my life, so I’m used to making new friends and finding new things to do. My husband and I both work from home, so we could move anywhere that has good internet access.”

20. What languages are you fluent in?

The United Nations Foundation is a global organization that requires its employees to be able to communicate with people from all over the world. The interviewer may ask this question to determine if you have any language skills and how fluent you are in them. If you speak more than one language, let the interviewer know which ones they are and mention any experience you have using those languages professionally.

Example: “I am fluent in English and Spanish. I learned Spanish in high school and college, and I used it as an interpreter for the hospital where I worked during my internship.”