Selection Process

Fair selection, equal opportunity, global impact

At WIPO, we are dedicated to selecting the most competent candidates to ensure the best fit for each announced position.

Our selection process is designed to be effective, impartial, objective, transparent, and fair. We also strive to achieve gender and geographical balance within our workforce.  

Here is the process when you apply for a job at WIPO:  

  • Step 1

    Create your profile

    Register on our online recruitment system and set up your profile to start applying for jobs at WIPO. You only need to do this once, and you can edit it as needed.
    Fill in each relevant section. Only the information you have entered in the online recruitment system will be used to assess your profile. CV will be disregarded.  
  • Step 2

    Submit your application

    Once your profile is created, you can use it to apply for jobs that interest you.  Your application should include a detailed profile, responses to the job questionnaire, and a letter of motivation. Please make sure to submit your job application before the indicated deadline. 
    Please read the requirements carefully and make sure you meet at least the essential ones. To improve your chances, tailor each application to the specific job you are applying for, highlighting the experiences that match the requirements. 
  • Step 3

    Notification of next steps

    After submitting your application, it will be registered in WIPO’s recruitment system, and you will receive an email confirming receipt.
  • Step 4

    Shortlisting

    Our human resources team will review all applications against the qualifications outlined in the job description and the self-screening questions you provide. Applications meeting the minimum job requirements will then be forwarded to a board for further evaluation and shortlisting.  
  • Step 5

    Testing

    Shortlisted candidates may be invited to take an anonymous test tailored to the job requirements. Typically, you will have one week to complete a 60-to-120-minute test using a dedicated platform. Alternatively, the board may opt to add a technical question during the interview. 
    The board will review the test results and finalize the shortlist for interviews.
  • Step 6

    Interviews

    Candidates who successfully complete the test, or shortlisted candidates for jobs that do not require a test, are invited for a video or in-person interview. These interviews usually last between 45 to 60 minutes, and are done in a panel format, involving up to four board members. Candidates are assessed against WIPO’s organizational competencies. The competency-based interview follows a structured format, where you are asked to provide examples from past experiences that illustrate your behavior in specific situations. Read our guide on Preparing for competency-based interviews (CBI) to prepare for your interview.
  • Step 7

    Recommendation

    The board will objectively evaluate test and interview results to create a list of recommended candidates for consideration by the Director General. Both successful and unsuccessful candidates will be notified of the outcome of the interview once the selection has been made.
  • Step 8

    Approval

    If you are the selected candidate, reference and/or background checks may be conducted. You will then receive an email to inform you of the selection decision, and asking you to confirm acceptance and a tentative start date. If you accept, you will then receive an official Letter of Appointment.  

The duration of the selection process varies depending on the specific job and circumstances. However, on average, it takes approximately 15 weeks from the time a job posting closes to the final decision being made.