What is the Standard Process for IT Job Interviews?

When it comes to job interviews, the field of the job usually plays no role in how the interview is set up. Most jobs have a first interview, followed by a second interview. No matter what field you are in, two interviews is fairly standard.

However, the same is not true with IT job interviews. With some exceptions, IT job interviews tend to have a different setup than other job interviews.

How the IT Interview Process Works

• Step 1: Recruiter Intake Phone Call

Many times the first step is to impress the recruiter. The recruiter’s job is to gather preset, very specific information from you. The same questions are asked to all applicants without exception. It is designed to compile information more so than find out if you are the candidate they want. The recruiter will also let you know details of the job(s) that are available.

• Step 2: Phone Interview With Hiring Manager

If the data collected by the recruiter shows you are suitable for a job, you will receive another phone interview designed to supply the company itself with information that shows whether or not you are a good candidate. If you have the resume, skills and knowledge, you will be called in for an in person interview.

• Step 3: In Person #1

The first in person interview is similar to in person interviews at any location. First interviews ask you more about your experiences and knowledge, introduce you to the team, and see if you are a good fit.

• Step 4: Second Interview

It is common during second interviews for IT jobs to meet the department lead and answer any remaining knowledge questions from the staff. The intensity of the second interview is relative to the number of people still in the running for the position. If the job is pretty much yours, you will likely have a fairly easy second interview. If the job is still competitive, expect to be grilled with questions. You have no way of knowing so always come prepared.

Not a Rule

IT interviews can be conducted any way that the company prefers. Startup companies, for example, often do not use recruiters for their hiring needs. However, the steps above seem to be prevalent in the industry in a way that is not true with most other jobs. IT job interviews can be quite tough, but if you have the knowledge the end result is well worth the effort.

Take Away Interview Tips

• IT Interviews generally have four steps.
• You need to prepare for phone interviews in order to get an in person interview.