Economic uncertainty has led to not only layoffs and hiring freezes — Job interviews are also getting longer and longer.
“Hiring, recommending and training is an expensive process, and companies want to make sure they get the right candidate right from the start,” says Richard Lambert, a resume and workplace expert. head.
While three to five rounds of interviews were once expected for non-management positions, the new standard is much more demanding.
“I have had clients who have had terrible interviews,” Lambert says.
“They were delighted to have received a call back after their application had passed the screening process, only to get through the thorniest stages of interview after round of interviews, tests. and create real work for the jobs they take on that don’t already exist.”
It is better to be surprised by the quick and easy interview procedure than to be caught off guard by the more difficult one.
Richard Lambert
Resume and workplace experts
As long interviews become more common, job seekers need to adapt to this process of jumping through more hoops.
Lambert added: “Be prepared for the worst. If you start getting interview calls, I’d recommend assuming you’ll be in for a long process with a lot of competition. painting”.
“Better to be surprised by the quick and easy interview procedure than to let your guard down by the more difficult one.”
Here are four tips for the lengthy interview process — and closing them:
1. Research the company and the role
When faced with a lengthy interview process, take the time to assess opportunities based on personal and professional goals, says Steven Leitch, a career coach and resume expert. your. That will determine if it is worth investing more energy into the process.
“Consider the organization’s reputation, culture, and growth prospects. This will help you determine if the company aligns with your values.”
You should also evaluate its role and potential for growth, he added.
“Consider the position’s potential for learning, career growth, and advancement. Assess whether the opportunity aligns with your long-term goals and whether the investment of time and effort is worth it. or not.”
2. Clarify expectations
Long job interviews can be frustrating, but that can be controlled if you first seek clarity on the road ahead.
“Communicating openly with the hiring manager or HR representative will help you better understand what to expect,” says Leitch.
“Look for clarity on the number of rounds of interviews, tests, and estimated time from the early stages of the process.”
If you have the mindset that the interview is going to be a marathon, you’ll look forward to it and you’ll be better prepared to see things through to the end.
Richard Lambert
Resume and workplace experts
That will help put you in the state of mind to distance yourself as a candidate.
“When preparing for a marathon, a person doesn’t fret about the duration of the marathon – they train themselves to take on the challenge,” says Lambert.
“The same goes for today’s normal long interview process: If you have the mindset that the interview is going to be a marathon, you’ll expect it and you’ll be better prepared to consider things for the future. until the end.”
Ayomi Samaraweera, a former management consultant and now TikTok creator who gives career advice, went through 9 rounds of interviews to apply for a job. She told CNBC that it’s important to make sure you know the compensation on the table.
“You don’t want to find yourself in a position where you’ve done seven interviews, they offer you roles and salaries that don’t match your expectations and the gap is too big to close.”
3. Consider other options
While going through a lengthy interview process, it is essential to keep exploring other opportunities.
“Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Consider other job opportunities and stay connected to keep your options open,” says Leitch.
“Even if you’ve come a long way in the interview process for a role, you should always be looking for other roles. This can also give you leverage in the negotiation process if you’re offered the role. that shoulder.”
Samaraweera adds: Exploring and interviewing for multiple roles can also keep you up to date with changing needs in your industry.
4. Be consistent
If you’re going through multiple rounds of interviews with many different individuals in your company, it’s important to be consistent when answering the same questions.
“But candidates should also tailor their answers to the specific context and the individuals involved,” says Leitch.
Lambert adds: “Someone doing an interview may not know the previous interview notes – or they may already know the full extent of the previous interview and want to see how consistent you are across the lines. his answer.”
Here’s how you can effectively approach each round, according to Leitch:
- Review previous interactions;
- Tailor your responses to the audience;
- Show developments and new insights;
- Use storytelling techniques.
“Finally, trust your intuition. If you feel the company is genuinely interested and the role matches your aspirations, you can go through a lengthy interview process,” he added.
“However, it’s best to re-evaluate the opportunity if you feel there are warning signs, such as a lack of transparency or disrespect towards candidates.”
Do not miss: Job interviews are getting longer and longer – here’s why it can be a red flag
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