What to expect where.
WHAT LARGE TECHNOLOGY COMPANIES TYPICALLY DO
Structured, multi-stage processes Standardised technical assessments Behavioural interviews against defined criteria Committee-based decisions
WHAT THAT MEANS FOR PREPARATION
The format is predictable and worth practising specifically.
WHAT STARTUPS TYPICALLY DO
Fewer stages More emphasis on practical work Founder involvement Faster decisions
WHAT THAT MEANS
Fit and enthusiasm weigh more heavily.
WHAT ESTABLISHED LOCAL COMPANIES TYPICALLY DO
Conventional interviews Emphasis on qualifications and references Sometimes, written assessments
WHAT AGENCIES AND CONSULTANCIES ASSESS
Client-facing ability alongside technical skill.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH BEFORE ANY PROCESS
How many stages What each involves How long it takes Who you will meet
WHY
Preparation differs, and so does the time commitment.
WHAT TO ASK
The recruiter or the contact, directly.
WHAT TO BE WARY OF
Processes with many stages and no clarity Unpaid work presented as assessment Repeated rescheduling
WHAT THOSE SIGNAL
Disorganisation, which frequently continues after joining.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT SEVERAL PROCESSES AT ONCE
Track them, and manage timing deliberately.
WHY
Offers arriving at different times complicate decisions.
