I had applied for a position and was initially contacted via email by an Associate Director for what was described as a screener interview. I clarified this with them, asking whether the interview would focus solely on matching my experience to the role, and was reassured that it would mainly assess my fit, with perhaps a couple of competency-based questions. However, when the interview took place, it turned out to be a full first-stage interview, with two people asking a mix of technical and competency-based questions. This was not what I had expected, and had I known it would be more in-depth, I would have prepared more thoroughly. Additionally, I was taken aback by how deeply they probed into what I had been doing during the months I had not been employed. While I understand the need to address gaps in employment, it felt a bit invasive, especially considering the current state of the job market, which I’m sure they are aware of as well.

CV screening, introduction interview, tell me about yourself, why our company, why you are a good fit for the role, behavioral questions followed by timed case study where you eventually present your findings on the slides to the team.