Surviving Ultralong Interview Processes

Most companies have long, painful interview processes. A super quick search from job posting to offer still takes about four weeks, and can easily be double or triple that. I completely agree with this article on how to manage successfully a long interview process.

1. Ask what the interview process is like. The typical process starts with a phone screen, followed by 1-2 in-person interviews, but I often see processes that are much more involved, requiring writing assessments or presentations or even online personality tests. Given this wide range, feel free to ask HR what the typical process is, e.g., number of rounds and where they are in the process. Ask nicely, and don’t bug.
2. Keep your energy up. Per my blog on marathon interviews, pack an energy bar and ask for water. You need to be fresh with everyone, even when each person asks the same. question. each. time. Pace yourself for multiple rounds of interviews.
3. Employers can have some flexibility with scheduling interviews. Go ahead and give ranges that work for you (e.g., all Thursdays, preference for mornings or for lunch, etc.). Sometimes your requests get honored, so it can’t hurt to ask (nicely, of course).
4. Know you are always being evaluated not just by the official interviewers, but also by your scheduling coordinator, your HR contact, the receptionist, driver, and anyone you are introduced to while on-site. Interviewers compare notes, so keep your answers consistent.