Depending on the position you applied for you might be asked immediately for a face-to-face interview, without taking a test or recording a video interview.
Before the interview you will meet briefly with a Human Resources staff member. During this meeting, we will handle your travel expenses, ask you to sign a copy of your application where necessary, explain the recruitment process and interview procedure and answer any questions you may have at this stage. You will be required to bring both originals and copies of your diplomas and certificates with you. You will also be given information on the selection board, the group of people who sit in on the interviews and select the final candidate.
The NCI Agency follows strict guidelines to ensure that every candidate is treated fairly. All candidates will be asked the same questions during the interview. The selection board will consistently assess the candidates based on predefined criteria and scoring.
The formal face-to-face interviews generally last between 45 and 90 minutes. There will be at least three interviewers plus a civilian staff association representative. The representative is there to observe that the hiring process is fair and balanced to all candidates.
The board will take notes during the interview to assess your suitability for the position. Please do not take this as them being rude or disinterested! They are taking notes as you speak to make sure they are accurately recording your responses.
You may take notes during the interview to organize your thoughts on paper provided to you, but you cannot take these notes away with you. You will be given a chance to ask questions regarding the position at the end of the interview.
How to prepare for the interview:
- Research the Agency's role within NATO and read the vacancy notice carefully. Find out what the Agency is doing and think about how you see yourself fitting in it. Be prepared to tell us what you could bring to the Agency.
- Prepare examples of how you have achieved (or learned) something of relevance to the position.
- Think about how your experience, interests and skills fit the job and the Agency.
- Think about what questions we might ask during the interview and prepare yourself to answer them.
- Prepare the questions you would like to ask the panel, but keep in mind that you will not gain additional credit at interview simply by asking questions.
- Practice answering interview questions with a friend.
You should also…
- Bring the necessary documents with you: identification, diplomas and certificates, completed bank details and complete supplementary in your profile as requested. It's a good idea to pack them in your bag the night before.
- Plan how you will get to the interview. Check the location and how to get there. You should arrive 10 minutes before the time mentioned in interview invitation.
- If you are travelling, collect and keep all the receipts in order to hand them over to the person who will be doing in-briefing with you.
- Decide what you will wear and set it out the night before. Suits and business wear are the best option with clean and smart shoes.
- Get an early night. We all perform better when fully awake.
During the interview:
- Turn off your phone.
- Address the panel members by name.
- Demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role and for NATO.
- Keep answers simple and short with specific examples when needed.
- Avoid using slang and words you don't understand.
- Ask for clarification if you don't understand a question.
- Talk about why you are the right person for the job.
- Thank the interviewers.
Non-verbals:
- A solid handshake is essential. It shows confidence.
- Keep good eye contact with the interviewers.
- Be aware of your body language. Don't shift in your seat or fidget.
- Sit up straight. Pronounce your words clearly, and in an audible voice and tone.
- Crossed arms and legs might denote defensiveness.
- Be honest and authentic. Your body language and facial expressions show us your interest in the post.