World Bank job applications: What you need to know

If you are seeking a career with the World Bank, you are not alone. The bank receives thousands of applications each year from every corner of the globe. In order to stand out, your skill set and work experience must closely match the position you are interested in. Job opportunities are open to citizens of the bank’s 188 member countries, between the ages of 18 and 60. Countries not on the list include Cuba and North Korea. If you do not have at least a master’s degree, World Bank employment is a long shot. Even for entry-level work, it is commonly known that the minimal qualification is a master’s degree. As one recruiter put it, “If you don’t have that, there is no point in applying.” The World Bank offers internship opportunities to students pursuing a graduate degree. On the bank’s employment page, you will find a host of opportunities, everything from executive to intern positions. The site is easy to navigate, and it takes about 20 minutes to complete an application. This has to be done in one session, since it is not possible to save drafts. When selecting a position online, you will be asked to create an account with a user ID and password. This account will help you track your application and also streamline any future applications. After a successful login, the system will present you with a six-step application form. Step 1: General instructions. Step 2: Contact details. Step 3: Employment information, including experience in developing countries. Step 4: Education and language skills. Step 5: Statement of interest of no more than 700 words, as well as a file of maximal 150 KB containing an English-language resume without photograph. (For a World Bank sample resume, see the below attachment.) Step 6: A series of multiple choice questions regarding your aptitude for the position you are applying for. Bank insiders stressed that applicants should not underestimate the importance of a good statement of interest. Keep your statement concise and, if possible, give specific examples of relevant projects where you excelled, apart from those covered by your resume. If you are one of the lucky ones to be shortlisted for a position, you will be notified by e-mail and asked to log in to the system and provide additional information about yourself, which will enable you to proceed in the selection process. The bank also carries out international recruitment fairs. These are infrequent and generally coupled with other World Bank events. Recruitment fairs give those who do not live in the Washington area a chance to get some face time with the bank’s human resource staff. But even those attending this World Bank recruitment events must still apply through the Web site. Interview tips Candidates who are not from the Washington area have the option to be interviewed via video or teleconference. But recruiters said it is still more advantageous to interview in person. The interview is usually in the form of a panel meeting. You can expect four to five bank representatives to take part. Typically, the interview begins with a series of screening questions to assess your experience in your desired field. If you have professional experience in a developing country, this is a good time to bring it up. Candidates have described the interview as very Western in style, and you should expect behavioral or situational questions, in addition to questions on your experience. You may be presented with a “what would you do if…” situational question designed not only to test your expertise but also your integrity. The process often spans two to three rounds of interviews, but occasionally well-qualified candidates have received offers after the first consultation. Do not bring up salary expectations. This matter is at the sole discretion of the recruitment team, which would likely base it on your qualifications and salary history. This subject will only be mentioned after a candidate has been selected. Looking to make a career move? Visit our career center for expert advice on how to navigate your job search - all you need is a Devex Career Account to get started.