The World Bank Group job selection process includes an interview stage, whose main aim is to find out more about the candidate and analyze their knowledge, competencies and experience.

Nowadays, the World Bank long-distance interview is an increasingly common practice used by organizations in their recruitment and selection processes. Also called a “virtual interview”, this type of interview enables the interviewer and interviewee to talk without a face-to-face meeting.

Despite this difference, the aim remains the same, which is looking for candidates with the professional and behavioral profile most fitting to the organization’s interests.

To help you with the World Bank long-distance interview we will now provide you with 10 tips to avoid unforeseen holdups:

1. Anticipate any technical problems: test your equipment, software (such as Skype) and internet connection in advance. A good piece of advice is to do a short simulation a few minutes beforehand with someone you know. Check that your webcam, microphone and speakers (or earphones) are working perfectly.
2. Choose the most appropriate location: it is important to choose the environment where you will have the interview. Think about all the possible locations and select the one which is the most comfortable, has good lighting, is quiet, has a good internet connection and presents an organized and professional backdrop (a disorganized desk and people moving behind you may negatively affect your chances).
3. Check the lighting: pay attention to the lighting when selecting the location. It may have a direct impact on the image transmitted by your webcam. The interviewers want to see you clearly and the presence of shadows or strong lighting may prevent this. Avoid having intense lighting behind you, such as a window, since you run the risk of only your shadow appearing.
4. Test the connection: check your internet connection. If your internet is erratic, look for another location with a good connection. If possible, connect to the internet using a connection cable, since wi-fi networks are more unstable.
5. Check the battery: If you are using a device, such as a tablet or notebook, check your battery level. Charge the piece of equipment on which you will have the interview hours in advance or, if possible, leave the device connected to the charger.
6. Adjust the camera: Before starting the interview, check if the camera is at eye level. The ideal is that the interviewer is able to see your head and shoulders clearly. Also pay attention to the distance of the camera (neither very close nor very far away).
7. Eliminate all distractions: Depending on where your interview is held, there may be various reasons for distractions and interruptions, such as children, pets, unexpected visits and a ringing telephone, among others. These distractions may interrupt the interview, negatively affecting the dynamics. Therefore, before starting, prepare everything you need, so this does not happen. Put your cell phone on silent mode.
8. Have all the relevant material within reach: avoid getting up during the interview to fetch objects and materials that are required during the interview. Before starting the interview, put everything within your reach. Have a glass of water, a copy of your curriculum vitae and other personal documents that may be needed nearby.
9. Have a plan B: even though you have tested your equipment, technology is susceptible to failures when least expected. Therefore, always have a plan B or even C – whether this is an alternative wireless connection modem, notebook or tablet and even a neighbor’s house to use, if required.
10. Be dressed appropriately: Even though it is a long-distance interview, you should still dress appropriately for it. Do not forget that if it is a video conference interview, the interviewer will be observing you. Therefore, dress in the same way as for a face-to-face interview

In pursuit of its mission, OpenIGO has prepared support and guidance services, with the aim of highly increasing your chances of success in these competitive selection processes. These services include revising your WBG application documents (curriculum vitae/resume and cover letter) and a mock interview, as per the WBG model. We also offer a range of packages that combine our eBook with different services.

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