Question

Explain or give an example of the most recent hiring/ interview process you underwent.

Explain why this was positive or negative and why.

Answer 1

Solution:-

1.The shortlist

The first step in the interview process is to get shortlisted for interview. This may involve you sending a tailored CV and cover letter in response to an advertised position or going through an online application process. In some cases you may be headhunted or called to interview on the basis of a strong referral.

2.The Screening Interview

Many companies now have screening interview to assess whether you possess the qualifications and general aptitude to do the job. This may be carried out over the phone or in person, usually with a recruitment agency or an in-house recruiter. The main function of the screening interview is to narrow down the number of candidates to be called for First round Interviews.

3.The First Round Interview

This is often the first time that you will meet your potential employer for the first time. Their objective is to assess whether you possess the skills, aptitude and experience to do the job. They will also attempt to ascertain whether you can do the job, are willing to do the job and how you will fit in with the organisation.

4.The Second Round Interview

The second round interview is normally where you get to meet different managers in the organisation. The most senior hirer from the first round will often be attendance in the second round to offer continuity to the process. Your interviewer will normally attempt to delve deeper into particular interesting items of interest from the First Round Interview. The key to the second round interview is not top fear repetition and to re-iterate and re-tell compelling stories emphasising your’ Unique Selling Points.

5.The Third Round Interview

Some companies may call you back for a third round interview in order to to be as close to 100% sure as possible that they are making the correct hiring decision. Again the personalities may change for the third round and you may even be introduced to co-workers for the first time.

By the third round you will be expected to possess a lot more knowledge about the company than displayed in the first and second rounds. It is important to showcase this extensive research to prove to the interview panel that you have done your homework.

Some companies may go to fourth and fifth round interviews and beyond. Generally, in Ireland however, the interview process does not go beyond three rounds. If the third interview happens to be your final interview (a good indication is if the owner or MD of the company is present), be sure to bring along a list of references in case you are offered the position straight away.

6.The Job Offer and Background Check

The final phase in the process is usually a job offer contingent on your referees giving you a good reference and perhaps you providing scripts/copies of your relevant qualifications.

For some positions and companies employers may insist on a background check to ensure you are who you say on your CV or that you have no criminal convictions.

If you are happy with the package on offer, congratulations! you have a new job. If not there may be a bit of to-ing and fro-ing between you and your employer to be in order to guarantee the best package.

Every company is different and the interview process varies from company to company. Some companies will make a decision based on the first round whilst others will make you jump through hoops in order to ensure that they are close to 100% sure, as possible, that they have selected the right candidate. Other companies may have video interviews or presentations as part of the process whilst many larger companies may insist that you complete aptitude tests. Treat these processes as fluid depending on eth company and position you are targeting, they may vary. When setting out on the journey you should ask what the interview process will entail to ensure you are prepared for the long haul, where necessary.

2) Why this was positive

As my skills and asssestment test completed and other process of the interview was good and review and feedback from the company was too good so the Interview process was Positve