Foreign Service Officer Interview Questions
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Foreign Service Officer interview questions shared by candidates
How does a typical commercial diplomat spends his day?
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Typically reading the business section of the newspaper, going over papers, etc.
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Parks his car anyplace he wants
How do you operate in a team environment? Give an example of how you manage conflicts in a team environment.
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The Department of State heavily functions using team effort, support and coordination. It is expected that you have the same ability before taking such a job. Examples of how you work in teams and managed conflict or differences in opinion is particularly useful. Less
Most Difficult: Listing every international business trip and overseas contact for the previous several years.
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Hopefully, you'll have a good record of your movements.
Why do you want to join the Foreign Service?
Describe you experience planning events and working with difficult people.
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I gave very specific examples of past experiences.
How would you respond to an Afghan national leader who wanted paid for influencing projects to be developed and/or awarded to his own companies or friends/family who owned them.
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Under normal conditions answer would be a flat-out no that cannot work under such 'bribery' influence. However, Afghanistan is corrupt thoughout and operates by tribal and family traditions that have been 'in stone' for centuries. I would listen to the national leaders proposals and discuss/consider 'among USAID colleagues - supervisors' how and if there would be any way we could work with the national as he proposes. Unfortunately the way countries like Afghanistan and West work are far apart. One has to discuss and consider alternative 'legal' ways in order for work and projects to progress. Otherwise there is a standstill and nothing gets done. Less