1) What is the Problem Solving and Time Management training?

This practical training helps participants strengthen their problem-solving, decision-making and time management skills through structured tools and techniques. It supports participants in defining problems clearly, making informed decisions, gaining commitment to proposed solutions, and managing competing demands by prioritising high-value work.


The training covers topics such as problem definition, problem-solving tools, decision-making, collaborative problem solving, time management, priority setting, workload planning and techniques.

2) Who is the training intended for?

The training is intended for IOM staff who regularly need to solve problems, make decisions, prioritise tasks, manage competing demands or organise their workload effectively in their current role.

3) What are the learning objectives of the training?

By the end of the training, participants should be able to:

  • Define and understand a problem
  • Apply a variety of problem-solving tools and techniques to actual business problems
  • Develop a consistent problem-solving approach
  • Understand the decision-making process
  • Make better, more informed decisions
  • Gain the commitment of others to proposed solutions
  • Strengthen their ability to prioritise tasks, manage competing demands and protect time for high-value work

4) How many cohort will happen in 2026


English cohorts:

  • 22 to 24 September 2026

    • Morning cohort: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM Geneva time
    • Afternoon cohort: 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM Geneva time

Spanish cohort:

  • 13 to 15 October 2026: 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM Geneva time


French cohort:

  • 11 to 13 November 2026: 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM Geneva time


Each cohort will have a maximum of 20 participants.

7) How many participants can attend each cohort?

Each cohort is limited to 20 participants. As places are limited, applications will be reviewed according to the eligibility and prioritisation criteria.

8) Can I choose my preferred cohort?

If several cohorts are announced at the same time, applicants may indicate their preferred cohort. For the Spanish and French cohorts, where only one cohort is offered, applicants will not be asked to choose between different cohort options.

9) If I apply, is my participation automatically confirmed?

No. Submitting an application does not guarantee participation. Applications will be reviewed, and selected participants will receive confirmation before attending the training.

10) What criteria will be used to review applications?


Eligibility Requirements

To be considered, applicants must meet all eligibility requirements listed below:

  • Be an active IOM staff member holding a Regular, Fixed-term, Special Fixed-term or Special Short-term contract, graded or ungraded.
  • Have completed all mandatory IOM training.
  • Have completed a minimum of 6 months of service with IOM.
  • Expected to remain with IOM for at least 6 months after the completion date of the training
  • Have supervisor approval to attend and be released during the training hours.
  • Be willing and able to dedicate the required time to complete the full programme.
  • Have sufficient proficiency in the language of the selected cohort to understand and actively participate in the training.


Selection and Prioritisation Criteria

If the number of eligible applications exceeds the number of available places, applications may be prioritised based on:

  • the extent to which the applicant’s current role requires problem-solving, decision-making, prioritisation or managing competing demands;
  • whether the applicant has previously attended the same or similar training;
  • the applicant’s current confidence and knowledge level in the relevant skills;
  • the applicant’s motivation and link between the training and their current role;
  • the relevance of the concrete work-related example provided in the application.

11) Can I apply if I previously attended another Problem Solving and Time Management cohort?

You may apply, but priority may be given to applicants who have not previously attended an IOM Problem Solving and Time Management training.

12) Can I apply if I attended a similar training outside IOM?

Yes, you may still apply. However, applicants who have not previously attended similar training may be prioritised, depending on the number of applications received.

13) What should I include in the motivation question?

Applicants should explain how the training would support their current role and responsibilities. The answer should include a concrete work-related situation where stronger problem-solving, decision-making, prioritisation or time management skills would be useful.

Applicants should also explain how the training could benefit their work, team or IOM more broadly.

14) What kind of example should I provide in the application?

The example should be a real work-related situation where the applicant had to solve a problem, make a decision, prioritise competing requests or manage workload under pressure.

For example, the situation could involve:

  • Competing deadlines
  • Unclear information
  • Difficulty choosing between options
  • Workload pressure
  • Delays caused by lack of prioritisation

15) Do I need supervisor approval to apply?

Yes. Applicants should upload on the application form the supervisor approval confirming their participation in the course and their release during the training hours.

16) Do I need to upload my contract?

Yes. Applicants should upload their current contract, covering at least 6 months from the end date of the training, or provide confirmation from their supervisor that their contract is expected to be extended.

17) What happens if my application is late or incomplete?

Late or incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants should ensure that all required information and supporting documents are submitted before the deadline.

18) Can I attend only part of the training?

Participants are expected to attend the full training. As the course is delivered over several sessions and includes practical tools and exercises, full participation is important.

19) Will the training be recorded?

Details on recording, if applicable, will be communicated to selected participants before the training.

20) Can affiliate workforce apply?

No. This training is only open to eligible IOM staff members. Affiliate workforce members are not eligible to apply.

21) Are staff on SLWOP eligible to apply?

No. Staff on SLWOP are not eligible to participate in SDL programmes during their period of Special Leave Without Pay.

22) Where can I ask questions about the application process?

For questions related to the application process, please submit a ticket here.