Frequently Asked Questions

Technical competencies also known as hard skills, describe the application of knowledge and skills needed to perform specific tasks in a specific job. These are those that can be taught in a classroom, and can be defined, evaluated, and measured. In other words, this is the "knowhow" needed for successful performance. Examples include: project planning or knowledge of a specific weapon system or software.

Behavioral competencies, also known as soft skills, describe the combination of abilities, motivations and personality traits required to perform effectively in a role. Examples include: interpersonal skills, decision making, communication and leadership abilities.

Different jobs require different competencies. You will find all relevant job-specific skills in the job description, so you know what to expect.

All NSPA personnel are expected to conduct themselves in accordance with the current NATO Code of Conduct agreed by the North Atlantic Council (NAC), and thus display the core values of integrity, impartiality, loyalty, accountability, and professionalism.

We will require you to use Microsoft Office Suite namely Word, Power Point and /or Excel. If you do not have MS Office, we recommend using available alternatives such as: https://www.libreoffice.org/, Google docs or other available alternatives --- Please make sure you save the file in an MS Office compatible format.

Written tests are primarily designed to test your technical skills, written abilities and proficiency in the Microsoft Office software suit.

The written test consists of a combination of:

• Multiple choice questions
• Writing an essay on a job related subject
• Preparing a short report or drafting general correspondence
• Preparing a presentation or briefing
• Answering practical tests

A typical written test usually takes between 1.5 to 3 hours.

Upon submission of the written test the content will be checked for plagiarism by the HR staff, if plagiarism is detected automatic disqualification will be the result. Future applications from the participant will be considered null and void.

• The participant must certify that they sat this test alone and without outside help.
• The participant must be aware that it is not permitted to use any tools available via internet, reference documents or any translation facilities
• The participant must know that any attempt to cheat or any dishonesty on participants part will automatically disqualify them from the competition and might cause future applications from the participant to be considered null and void.

• Our remote interviews are conducted by a Panel. Typically it comprises 4 members (2 hiring managers, a Human Resources representative and a neutral member).
• The interviews for B grade positions take between 35 and 40 Minutes / for A grade positions the interview takes between 50 and 55 minutes.

• HR uses a software called WebEx provided by Cisco
• You can download this application here
• If you want to test a meeting using this software please click here
• For all internal NSPA candidates it is mandatory to use a private device operating outside the NERAS network
• To learn how to join a WebEx meeting please click here

Refer to the job description (duties and requirements) and base your answers on concrete examples.

• Structure your answers and rehearse
• Align your skills, competencies and experiences with those requested in the job description
• We would like you to have some knowledge of NATO and NSPA.

We expect you to have an understanding of who we are, what we do and what you can do to enhance our Organization.

During remote interview, the Situation, Task, Action, Result (STAR) technique is frequently used. This means that to test your competencies you may be required to describe a situation you have faced, say what task needed to be performed, how you acted in that situation and what was the result.

This technique brings more structure to the interview and enables you to be better prepared in delivering your answers.

• Keep calm and positive
• Remember that the Panel is not there to trick or intimidate you. They want you to succeed.
• Be aware of your body language, be natural and maintain eye contact with the Panel members
• Listen carefully to all the questions being asked (take notes if needed)
• Be consistent and keep to the point and structure your answers
• Do not be afraid to ask for clarification if a question is unclear
• Although the Panel has your application form, do not assume prior knowledge on their part. You still need to sell yourself.

Except for the documents provided by the NSPA Talent Acquisition and Development Office, please note that no other documents / personal written notes are allowed during the oral interview.