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Is it a good or bad sign if a potential employer is willing to bend over backwards for an interview?
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I'm currently employed but looking elsewhere as my current position is unstable. In this search, I've found a company that wanted a very long second interview (4+ hours) that must start early - obviously cutting out a big chunk of my work day because I also lose the time driving there and back. Taking off this time would mean that I basically couldn't do any other interview during that week as I wouldn't be able to make up the hours that I would need to.
Because of this time commitment to a position I wasn't highly interested in after the first interview, I passed. But, they just recently offered to give me a call to discuss the company and hopefully get a better impression, and then split the interviews up so I can make it significantly easier.
That all sounds well and good. However, I'm skeptical (or paranoid). This is sending up red flags for me. I'm in a major city that is a huge center for software development, and while I feel my resume is strong, I am at about 5 years of development experience - I have no illusions that I am a unique snowflake. Basically, I struggle to believe that my own skillset is why they're so flexible about making the interview process work, and committing that much time to a candidate that only passed a 1 hour technical phone screen.
Edit: To clarify, my concern is that I am surprised a company would be willing to adjust for a candidate that isn't at a senior level. I'm trying to figure out if this is either a good sign (because the company is flexible and understanding) or a bad sign (because the company is desperate for qualified employees, because of high turnover or other faults). Since I am relatively inexperienced, I'm looking to tap into the experience of more seasoned individuals to learn from their insight.
Is this really a red flag, or am I simply worrying too much?
interviewing
edited Dec 15 '14 at 18:26
starsplusplus
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asked Apr 7 '14 at 15:54
JuniorIncanter
27136
add a comment |Â
up vote
33
down vote
favorite
I'm currently employed but looking elsewhere as my current position is unstable. In this search, I've found a company that wanted a very long second interview (4+ hours) that must start early - obviously cutting out a big chunk of my work day because I also lose the time driving there and back. Taking off this time would mean that I basically couldn't do any other interview during that week as I wouldn't be able to make up the hours that I would need to.
Because of this time commitment to a position I wasn't highly interested in after the first interview, I passed. But, they just recently offered to give me a call to discuss the company and hopefully get a better impression, and then split the interviews up so I can make it significantly easier.
That all sounds well and good. However, I'm skeptical (or paranoid). This is sending up red flags for me. I'm in a major city that is a huge center for software development, and while I feel my resume is strong, I am at about 5 years of development experience - I have no illusions that I am a unique snowflake. Basically, I struggle to believe that my own skillset is why they're so flexible about making the interview process work, and committing that much time to a candidate that only passed a 1 hour technical phone screen.
Edit: To clarify, my concern is that I am surprised a company would be willing to adjust for a candidate that isn't at a senior level. I'm trying to figure out if this is either a good sign (because the company is flexible and understanding) or a bad sign (because the company is desperate for qualified employees, because of high turnover or other faults). Since I am relatively inexperienced, I'm looking to tap into the experience of more seasoned individuals to learn from their insight.
Is this really a red flag, or am I simply worrying too much?
interviewing
edited Dec 15 '14 at 18:26
starsplusplus
1,2741220
asked Apr 7 '14 at 15:54
JuniorIncanter
27136
1
How did the first interview go? Interviews are about getting to know the company as well as them getting to know you. Do you know more about the company and their goals than you did before the phone screening, or is it just as mysterious? Are they selling genuine imitation Gucci hand bags? Also, you should know that half-day interviews are not all that unusual, and some positions are difficult to fill for whatever reason (geographic location, etc.).
– Robert Harvey
Apr 7 '14 at 16:01
4
Hey Junior, and welcome to The Workplace! Is there any chance you could address some of the concerns raised in the comments to make an edit and focus your question a little better? What makes you concerned this is a red flag? What makes you think this is a problem that needs solving? If you just want to bounce ideas off someone, The Workplace Chat may be a better place for that. Thanks in advance!
– jmac
Apr 7 '14 at 23:41
4
Comments removed. Please use comments to clarify/improve the question. To answer the question, please post an answer. For extended discussion, please use The Workplace Chat.
– yoozer8
Apr 8 '14 at 12:48
I'll just point out that 4 hours is a significant investment in time for them too - if they are willing to do this in the first place then they must consider you valuable - you may be one of two or three remaining candidates and they don't want to restrict their choice based on the fact that the interview scheduling is difficult for you.
– colmde
Aug 24 '16 at 11:01
...also I wouldn't call it bending over backwards, just being accommodating - they aren't sending a helicopter to pick you up and bring you to a champagne reception...
– colmde
Aug 24 '16 at 11:05
add a comment |Â
up vote
33
down vote
favorite
up vote
33
down vote
favorite
I'm currently employed but looking elsewhere as my current position is unstable. In this search, I've found a company that wanted a very long second interview (4+ hours) that must start early - obviously cutting out a big chunk of my work day because I also lose the time driving there and back. Taking off this time would mean that I basically couldn't do any other interview during that week as I wouldn't be able to make up the hours that I would need to.
Because of this time commitment to a position I wasn't highly interested in after the first interview, I passed. But, they just recently offered to give me a call to discuss the company and hopefully get a better impression, and then split the interviews up so I can make it significantly easier.
That all sounds well and good. However, I'm skeptical (or paranoid). This is sending up red flags for me. I'm in a major city that is a huge center for software development, and while I feel my resume is strong, I am at about 5 years of development experience - I have no illusions that I am a unique snowflake. Basically, I struggle to believe that my own skillset is why they're so flexible about making the interview process work, and committing that much time to a candidate that only passed a 1 hour technical phone screen.
Edit: To clarify, my concern is that I am surprised a company would be willing to adjust for a candidate that isn't at a senior level. I'm trying to figure out if this is either a good sign (because the company is flexible and understanding) or a bad sign (because the company is desperate for qualified employees, because of high turnover or other faults). Since I am relatively inexperienced, I'm looking to tap into the experience of more seasoned individuals to learn from their insight.
Is this really a red flag, or am I simply worrying too much?
interviewing
edited Dec 15 '14 at 18:26
starsplusplus
1,2741220
asked Apr 7 '14 at 15:54
JuniorIncanter
27136
I'm currently employed but looking elsewhere as my current position is unstable. In this search, I've found a company that wanted a very long second interview (4+ hours) that must start early - obviously cutting out a big chunk of my work day because I also lose the time driving there and back. Taking off this time would mean that I basically couldn't do any other interview during that week as I wouldn't be able to make up the hours that I would need to.
Because of this time commitment to a position I wasn't highly interested in after the first interview, I passed. But, they just recently offered to give me a call to discuss the company and hopefully get a better impression, and then split the interviews up so I can make it significantly easier.
That all sounds well and good. However, I'm skeptical (or paranoid). This is sending up red flags for me. I'm in a major city that is a huge center for software development, and while I feel my resume is strong, I am at about 5 years of development experience - I have no illusions that I am a unique snowflake. Basically, I struggle to believe that my own skillset is why they're so flexible about making the interview process work, and committing that much time to a candidate that only passed a 1 hour technical phone screen.
Edit: To clarify, my concern is that I am surprised a company would be willing to adjust for a candidate that isn't at a senior level. I'm trying to figure out if this is either a good sign (because the company is flexible and understanding) or a bad sign (because the company is desperate for qualified employees, because of high turnover or other faults). Since I am relatively inexperienced, I'm looking to tap into the experience of more seasoned individuals to learn from their insight.
Is this really a red flag, or am I simply worrying too much?
interviewing
edited Dec 15 '14 at 18:26
starsplusplus
1,2741220
asked Apr 7 '14 at 15:54
JuniorIncanter
27136
edited Dec 15 '14 at 18:26
starsplusplus
1,2741220
edited Dec 15 '14 at 18:26
starsplusplus
1,2741220
edited Dec 15 '14 at 18:26
starsplusplus
1,2741220
1,2741220
asked Apr 7 '14 at 15:54
JuniorIncanter
27136
asked Apr 7 '14 at 15:54
JuniorIncanter
27136
asked Apr 7 '14 at 15:54
JuniorIncanter
27136
27136
1
How did the first interview go? Interviews are about getting to know the company as well as them getting to know you. Do you know more about the company and their goals than you did before the phone screening, or is it just as mysterious? Are they selling genuine imitation Gucci hand bags? Also, you should know that half-day interviews are not all that unusual, and some positions are difficult to fill for whatever reason (geographic location, etc.).
– Robert Harvey
Apr 7 '14 at 16:01
4
Hey Junior, and welcome to The Workplace! Is there any chance you could address some of the concerns raised in the comments to make an edit and focus your question a little better? What makes you concerned this is a red flag? What makes you think this is a problem that needs solving? If you just want to bounce ideas off someone, The Workplace Chat may be a better place for that. Thanks in advance!
– jmac
Apr 7 '14 at 23:41
4
Comments removed. Please use comments to clarify/improve the question. To answer the question, please post an answer. For extended discussion, please use The Workplace Chat.
– yoozer8
Apr 8 '14 at 12:48
I'll just point out that 4 hours is a significant investment in time for them too - if they are willing to do this in the first place then they must consider you valuable - you may be one of two or three remaining candidates and they don't want to restrict their choice based on the fact that the interview scheduling is difficult for you.
– colmde
Aug 24 '16 at 11:01
...also I wouldn't call it bending over backwards, just being accommodating - they aren't sending a helicopter to pick you up and bring you to a champagne reception...
– colmde
Aug 24 '16 at 11:05
add a comment |Â
1
How did the first interview go? Interviews are about getting to know the company as well as them getting to know you. Do you know more about the company and their goals than you did before the phone screening, or is it just as mysterious? Are they selling genuine imitation Gucci hand bags? Also, you should know that half-day interviews are not all that unusual, and some positions are difficult to fill for whatever reason (geographic location, etc.).
– Robert Harvey
Apr 7 '14 at 16:01
4
Hey Junior, and welcome to The Workplace! Is there any chance you could address some of the concerns raised in the comments to make an edit and focus your question a little better? What makes you concerned this is a red flag? What makes you think this is a problem that needs solving? If you just want to bounce ideas off someone, The Workplace Chat may be a better place for that. Thanks in advance!
– jmac
Apr 7 '14 at 23:41
4
Comments removed. Please use comments to clarify/improve the question. To answer the question, please post an answer. For extended discussion, please use The Workplace Chat.
– yoozer8
Apr 8 '14 at 12:48
I'll just point out that 4 hours is a significant investment in time for them too - if they are willing to do this in the first place then they must consider you valuable - you may be one of two or three remaining candidates and they don't want to restrict their choice based on the fact that the interview scheduling is difficult for you.
– colmde
Aug 24 '16 at 11:01
...also I wouldn't call it bending over backwards, just being accommodating - they aren't sending a helicopter to pick you up and bring you to a champagne reception...
– colmde
Aug 24 '16 at 11:05
1
1
How did the first interview go? Interviews are about getting to know the company as well as them getting to know you. Do you know more about the company and their goals than you did before the phone screening, or is it just as mysterious? Are they selling genuine imitation Gucci hand bags? Also, you should know that half-day interviews are not all that unusual, and some positions are difficult to fill for whatever reason (geographic location, etc.).
– Robert Harvey
Apr 7 '14 at 16:01
How did the first interview go? Interviews are about getting to know the company as well as them getting to know you. Do you know more about the company and their goals than you did before the phone screening, or is it just as mysterious? Are they selling genuine imitation Gucci hand bags? Also, you should know that half-day interviews are not all that unusual, and some positions are difficult to fill for whatever reason (geographic location, etc.).
– Robert Harvey
Apr 7 '14 at 16:01
4
4
Hey Junior, and welcome to The Workplace! Is there any chance you could address some of the concerns raised in the comments to make an edit and focus your question a little better? What makes you concerned this is a red flag? What makes you think this is a problem that needs solving? If you just want to bounce ideas off someone, The Workplace Chat may be a better place for that. Thanks in advance!
– jmac
Apr 7 '14 at 23:41
Hey Junior, and welcome to The Workplace! Is there any chance you could address some of the concerns raised in the comments to make an edit and focus your question a little better? What makes you concerned this is a red flag? What makes you think this is a problem that needs solving? If you just want to bounce ideas off someone, The Workplace Chat may be a better place for that. Thanks in advance!
– jmac
Apr 7 '14 at 23:41
4
4
Comments removed. Please use comments to clarify/improve the question. To answer the question, please post an answer. For extended discussion, please use The Workplace Chat.
– yoozer8
Apr 8 '14 at 12:48
Comments removed. Please use comments to clarify/improve the question. To answer the question, please post an answer. For extended discussion, please use The Workplace Chat.
– yoozer8
Apr 8 '14 at 12:48
I'll just point out that 4 hours is a significant investment in time for them too - if they are willing to do this in the first place then they must consider you valuable - you may be one of two or three remaining candidates and they don't want to restrict their choice based on the fact that the interview scheduling is difficult for you.
– colmde
Aug 24 '16 at 11:01
I'll just point out that 4 hours is a significant investment in time for them too - if they are willing to do this in the first place then they must consider you valuable - you may be one of two or three remaining candidates and they don't want to restrict their choice based on the fact that the interview scheduling is difficult for you.
– colmde
Aug 24 '16 at 11:01
...also I wouldn't call it bending over backwards, just being accommodating - they aren't sending a helicopter to pick you up and bring you to a champagne reception...
– colmde
Aug 24 '16 at 11:05
...also I wouldn't call it bending over backwards, just being accommodating - they aren't sending a helicopter to pick you up and bring you to a champagne reception...
– colmde
Aug 24 '16 at 11:05
add a comment |Â
4 Answers
4
active
oldest
votes
up vote
57
down vote
accepted
It sounds like there are two things that are good signs to me.
They must think that your qualifications make it worth the extra effort for the chance to have you add you to their team.
They are respectful of your time restraints and willing to adapt to your needs.
These are qualities that I find highly attractive in a prospective company. That does not mean that the company will continue after you are hired on, However, my experience is that companies that are not flexible and respectful in their on boarding process are also not flexible or respectful of your time in their day to day operations. For that reason these are positives to me.
I would also guess that they are having trouble finding the right candidate for this position. It could be that they are looking for a rare combination of skills/experience. I would guess that if this is the case, based on your resume they think you may have that combination or something that they can work with. It could also be that the reality of the position may not live up to the expectations of their prospects. But the only way to find out is to have the interview.
Presumably you were interested in the position at some point. If you still are I think there is little reason now not to at least try the first interview. You should be able to get a feel for the company from it and make a decision at least if you are interested in future interviews. In the end even if you go through all the interviews and get an offer that is not what you are looking for, or even just decide the position is not for you, there is little lost in proceeding with the interview if you are interested in making a change.
answered Apr 7 '14 at 16:16
IDrinkandIKnowThings
43.9k1398188
45
It's also possible all the other candidates are also having trouble committing to a four-hour interview.
– Amy Blankenship
Apr 7 '14 at 16:40
2
That is possible as well, though it is pretty common in the industry, but the best people are often employed and busy already so if you are only looking for the best that is a real possiblity.
– IDrinkandIKnowThings
Apr 7 '14 at 16:48
27
I once had to cancel on an 8 hour Saturday job interview due to a freak snow storm in October. I was driving out 3 of my friends too who happened to be interviewing for the same position, and 20 minutes into the 3 hour drive we had to turn around as my car was sliding on the highway. We called to let them know we couldn't make it and the hiring manager was furious. Come Monday, he refused to reschedule our interviews. That was probably for the best.
– zim2411
Apr 7 '14 at 19:20
1
Thanks for the insight. I think you're probably right, but I think Amy makes a good point - I've had a few dozen interviews for similar positions in the same area, and it's the longest I've had so far in terms of total time commitment (due to their scheduling constraints, rather than total length of the actual interview).
– JuniorIncanter
Apr 7 '14 at 20:06
18
+1 - I'd add, though, that splitting up a 4 hour interview probably isn't really bending over backwards. Generally, for half-day interviews, you're really having several hour-long interviews with different people. There is no benefit to the company in doing that all in one day. The only reason to structure that as a single 4-hour interview is to save the candidate the effort of driving to the office 4 separate times. Splitting the interview up into 4 separate meetings on 4 separate days is really a pretty minor accommodation for the company to make.
– Justin Cave
Apr 7 '14 at 20:15
 |Â
show 4 more comments
up vote
17
down vote
Sounds to me like you're worrying too much. While the rest of the country may (or may not, depending on who you ask) be experiencing sluggish recovery and lingering unemployment and jobless rates, IT unemployment is extremely low or even negative (at least in my area), resulting in stiff competition for IT talent in most markets. You mention that your area is a hotbed of software development, so it seems to me that it's probably pretty likely that you're in a market where companies have to compete for development talent, rather than the other way around. So, with that in mind, I wouldn't see this a red flag (on its own), especially because this is certainly a situation that you don't have perfect information on.
They're definitely acting like they want to be as accommodating as possible to you, but that could be for many reasons, even independent of the competitive market for IT talent right now. Perhaps they're starting a new project, and need to hire engineers to deliver it. Perhaps someone important left recently, and they need to fill the opening. Perhaps you really blew them away on the phone interview, and they recognize your potential value. Or any number of other reasons that don't involve it being a bad place to work.
It's also very possible that you're experiencing the inverse relationship between knowledge and confidence that plagues a lot of intelligent, skilled individuals regarding your evaluation of your skillset.
Certainly, you should try to feel out the interviewers for why they're so accommodating, and maybe do some research on your own, like finding a developer or two that work there and taking them out for a meal (in exchange for information about the company), but this is good advice, regardless. Due your due diligence, but definitely don't let the fact that they're eager to accommodate you scare you off.
After all, what's the alternative? Working for someone who won't accommodate you during the interview process? That sounds like a serious red flag for a bad workplace. If they won't accommodate you while you're interviewing, what are the odds they'll be accommodating once you accept? Conversely, the fact that this company is accommodating to you now is a positive indication that they might be similarly accommodating to their employees, and not just their potential employees.
answered Apr 7 '14 at 16:25
HopelessN00b
9,78041753
I think your counterpoint regarding the alternative is really a good point. Doing some independent research hasn't thrown any red flags so far, and it seems well-reviewed on glassdoor.
– JuniorIncanter
Apr 7 '14 at 20:08
add a comment |Â
up vote
0
down vote
Yes, it's usually a bad sign if the company bends over backwards.
However, in your case they are only being flexible for a good candidate, not "bending over backwards".
It's a 4 hours interview, which is hard to do for an employee already working, and most of the good candidates are employed while interviewing.
And 5 years of experience cannot be considered "inexperienced", you are a valuable candidate. You are not an Ace in the deck, but J or Q at least. Enjoy.
answered Aug 24 '16 at 10:48
Necati Hakan Erdogan
36929
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up vote
-1
down vote
If it's the sort of job that makes sense for you, you should perceive a four hour interview as something fun where you'll get to do all sorts of new, interesting and challenging things.
If you feel as though it would be a hassle, then why would you even consider the job in the first place? Do something you want to do instead.
answered Jul 25 '14 at 14:08
Code Whisperer
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4 Answers
4
active
oldest
votes
4 Answers
4
active
oldest
votes
active
oldest
votes
active
oldest
votes
up vote
57
down vote
accepted
It sounds like there are two things that are good signs to me.
They must think that your qualifications make it worth the extra effort for the chance to have you add you to their team.
They are respectful of your time restraints and willing to adapt to your needs.
These are qualities that I find highly attractive in a prospective company. That does not mean that the company will continue after you are hired on, However, my experience is that companies that are not flexible and respectful in their on boarding process are also not flexible or respectful of your time in their day to day operations. For that reason these are positives to me.
I would also guess that they are having trouble finding the right candidate for this position. It could be that they are looking for a rare combination of skills/experience. I would guess that if this is the case, based on your resume they think you may have that combination or something that they can work with. It could also be that the reality of the position may not live up to the expectations of their prospects. But the only way to find out is to have the interview.
Presumably you were interested in the position at some point. If you still are I think there is little reason now not to at least try the first interview. You should be able to get a feel for the company from it and make a decision at least if you are interested in future interviews. In the end even if you go through all the interviews and get an offer that is not what you are looking for, or even just decide the position is not for you, there is little lost in proceeding with the interview if you are interested in making a change.
answered Apr 7 '14 at 16:16
IDrinkandIKnowThings
43.9k1398188
45
It's also possible all the other candidates are also having trouble committing to a four-hour interview.
– Amy Blankenship
Apr 7 '14 at 16:40
2
That is possible as well, though it is pretty common in the industry, but the best people are often employed and busy already so if you are only looking for the best that is a real possiblity.
– IDrinkandIKnowThings
Apr 7 '14 at 16:48
27
I once had to cancel on an 8 hour Saturday job interview due to a freak snow storm in October. I was driving out 3 of my friends too who happened to be interviewing for the same position, and 20 minutes into the 3 hour drive we had to turn around as my car was sliding on the highway. We called to let them know we couldn't make it and the hiring manager was furious. Come Monday, he refused to reschedule our interviews. That was probably for the best.
– zim2411
Apr 7 '14 at 19:20
1
Thanks for the insight. I think you're probably right, but I think Amy makes a good point - I've had a few dozen interviews for similar positions in the same area, and it's the longest I've had so far in terms of total time commitment (due to their scheduling constraints, rather than total length of the actual interview).
– JuniorIncanter
Apr 7 '14 at 20:06
18
+1 - I'd add, though, that splitting up a 4 hour interview probably isn't really bending over backwards. Generally, for half-day interviews, you're really having several hour-long interviews with different people. There is no benefit to the company in doing that all in one day. The only reason to structure that as a single 4-hour interview is to save the candidate the effort of driving to the office 4 separate times. Splitting the interview up into 4 separate meetings on 4 separate days is really a pretty minor accommodation for the company to make.
– Justin Cave
Apr 7 '14 at 20:15
 |Â
show 4 more comments
up vote
57
down vote
accepted
It sounds like there are two things that are good signs to me.
They must think that your qualifications make it worth the extra effort for the chance to have you add you to their team.
They are respectful of your time restraints and willing to adapt to your needs.
These are qualities that I find highly attractive in a prospective company. That does not mean that the company will continue after you are hired on, However, my experience is that companies that are not flexible and respectful in their on boarding process are also not flexible or respectful of your time in their day to day operations. For that reason these are positives to me.
I would also guess that they are having trouble finding the right candidate for this position. It could be that they are looking for a rare combination of skills/experience. I would guess that if this is the case, based on your resume they think you may have that combination or something that they can work with. It could also be that the reality of the position may not live up to the expectations of their prospects. But the only way to find out is to have the interview.
Presumably you were interested in the position at some point. If you still are I think there is little reason now not to at least try the first interview. You should be able to get a feel for the company from it and make a decision at least if you are interested in future interviews. In the end even if you go through all the interviews and get an offer that is not what you are looking for, or even just decide the position is not for you, there is little lost in proceeding with the interview if you are interested in making a change.
answered Apr 7 '14 at 16:16
IDrinkandIKnowThings
43.9k1398188
45
It's also possible all the other candidates are also having trouble committing to a four-hour interview.
– Amy Blankenship
Apr 7 '14 at 16:40
2
That is possible as well, though it is pretty common in the industry, but the best people are often employed and busy already so if you are only looking for the best that is a real possiblity.
– IDrinkandIKnowThings
Apr 7 '14 at 16:48
27
I once had to cancel on an 8 hour Saturday job interview due to a freak snow storm in October. I was driving out 3 of my friends too who happened to be interviewing for the same position, and 20 minutes into the 3 hour drive we had to turn around as my car was sliding on the highway. We called to let them know we couldn't make it and the hiring manager was furious. Come Monday, he refused to reschedule our interviews. That was probably for the best.
– zim2411
Apr 7 '14 at 19:20
1
Thanks for the insight. I think you're probably right, but I think Amy makes a good point - I've had a few dozen interviews for similar positions in the same area, and it's the longest I've had so far in terms of total time commitment (due to their scheduling constraints, rather than total length of the actual interview).
– JuniorIncanter
Apr 7 '14 at 20:06
18
+1 - I'd add, though, that splitting up a 4 hour interview probably isn't really bending over backwards. Generally, for half-day interviews, you're really having several hour-long interviews with different people. There is no benefit to the company in doing that all in one day. The only reason to structure that as a single 4-hour interview is to save the candidate the effort of driving to the office 4 separate times. Splitting the interview up into 4 separate meetings on 4 separate days is really a pretty minor accommodation for the company to make.
– Justin Cave
Apr 7 '14 at 20:15
 |Â
show 4 more comments
up vote
57
down vote
accepted
up vote
57
down vote
accepted
It sounds like there are two things that are good signs to me.
They must think that your qualifications make it worth the extra effort for the chance to have you add you to their team.
They are respectful of your time restraints and willing to adapt to your needs.
These are qualities that I find highly attractive in a prospective company. That does not mean that the company will continue after you are hired on, However, my experience is that companies that are not flexible and respectful in their on boarding process are also not flexible or respectful of your time in their day to day operations. For that reason these are positives to me.
I would also guess that they are having trouble finding the right candidate for this position. It could be that they are looking for a rare combination of skills/experience. I would guess that if this is the case, based on your resume they think you may have that combination or something that they can work with. It could also be that the reality of the position may not live up to the expectations of their prospects. But the only way to find out is to have the interview.
Presumably you were interested in the position at some point. If you still are I think there is little reason now not to at least try the first interview. You should be able to get a feel for the company from it and make a decision at least if you are interested in future interviews. In the end even if you go through all the interviews and get an offer that is not what you are looking for, or even just decide the position is not for you, there is little lost in proceeding with the interview if you are interested in making a change.
answered Apr 7 '14 at 16:16
IDrinkandIKnowThings
43.9k1398188
It sounds like there are two things that are good signs to me.
They must think that your qualifications make it worth the extra effort for the chance to have you add you to their team.
They are respectful of your time restraints and willing to adapt to your needs.
These are qualities that I find highly attractive in a prospective company. That does not mean that the company will continue after you are hired on, However, my experience is that companies that are not flexible and respectful in their on boarding process are also not flexible or respectful of your time in their day to day operations. For that reason these are positives to me.
I would also guess that they are having trouble finding the right candidate for this position. It could be that they are looking for a rare combination of skills/experience. I would guess that if this is the case, based on your resume they think you may have that combination or something that they can work with. It could also be that the reality of the position may not live up to the expectations of their prospects. But the only way to find out is to have the interview.
Presumably you were interested in the position at some point. If you still are I think there is little reason now not to at least try the first interview. You should be able to get a feel for the company from it and make a decision at least if you are interested in future interviews. In the end even if you go through all the interviews and get an offer that is not what you are looking for, or even just decide the position is not for you, there is little lost in proceeding with the interview if you are interested in making a change.
answered Apr 7 '14 at 16:16
IDrinkandIKnowThings
43.9k1398188
edited Apr 7 '14 at 19:53
answered Apr 7 '14 at 16:16
IDrinkandIKnowThings
43.9k1398188
answered Apr 7 '14 at 16:16
IDrinkandIKnowThings
43.9k1398188
answered Apr 7 '14 at 16:16
IDrinkandIKnowThings
43.9k1398188
43.9k1398188
45
It's also possible all the other candidates are also having trouble committing to a four-hour interview.
– Amy Blankenship
Apr 7 '14 at 16:40
2
That is possible as well, though it is pretty common in the industry, but the best people are often employed and busy already so if you are only looking for the best that is a real possiblity.
– IDrinkandIKnowThings
Apr 7 '14 at 16:48
27
I once had to cancel on an 8 hour Saturday job interview due to a freak snow storm in October. I was driving out 3 of my friends too who happened to be interviewing for the same position, and 20 minutes into the 3 hour drive we had to turn around as my car was sliding on the highway. We called to let them know we couldn't make it and the hiring manager was furious. Come Monday, he refused to reschedule our interviews. That was probably for the best.
– zim2411
Apr 7 '14 at 19:20
1
Thanks for the insight. I think you're probably right, but I think Amy makes a good point - I've had a few dozen interviews for similar positions in the same area, and it's the longest I've had so far in terms of total time commitment (due to their scheduling constraints, rather than total length of the actual interview).
– JuniorIncanter
Apr 7 '14 at 20:06
18
+1 - I'd add, though, that splitting up a 4 hour interview probably isn't really bending over backwards. Generally, for half-day interviews, you're really having several hour-long interviews with different people. There is no benefit to the company in doing that all in one day. The only reason to structure that as a single 4-hour interview is to save the candidate the effort of driving to the office 4 separate times. Splitting the interview up into 4 separate meetings on 4 separate days is really a pretty minor accommodation for the company to make.
– Justin Cave
Apr 7 '14 at 20:15
 |Â
show 4 more comments
45
It's also possible all the other candidates are also having trouble committing to a four-hour interview.
– Amy Blankenship
Apr 7 '14 at 16:40
2
That is possible as well, though it is pretty common in the industry, but the best people are often employed and busy already so if you are only looking for the best that is a real possiblity.
– IDrinkandIKnowThings
Apr 7 '14 at 16:48
27
I once had to cancel on an 8 hour Saturday job interview due to a freak snow storm in October. I was driving out 3 of my friends too who happened to be interviewing for the same position, and 20 minutes into the 3 hour drive we had to turn around as my car was sliding on the highway. We called to let them know we couldn't make it and the hiring manager was furious. Come Monday, he refused to reschedule our interviews. That was probably for the best.
– zim2411
Apr 7 '14 at 19:20
1
Thanks for the insight. I think you're probably right, but I think Amy makes a good point - I've had a few dozen interviews for similar positions in the same area, and it's the longest I've had so far in terms of total time commitment (due to their scheduling constraints, rather than total length of the actual interview).
– JuniorIncanter
Apr 7 '14 at 20:06
18
+1 - I'd add, though, that splitting up a 4 hour interview probably isn't really bending over backwards. Generally, for half-day interviews, you're really having several hour-long interviews with different people. There is no benefit to the company in doing that all in one day. The only reason to structure that as a single 4-hour interview is to save the candidate the effort of driving to the office 4 separate times. Splitting the interview up into 4 separate meetings on 4 separate days is really a pretty minor accommodation for the company to make.
– Justin Cave
Apr 7 '14 at 20:15
45
45
It's also possible all the other candidates are also having trouble committing to a four-hour interview.
– Amy Blankenship
Apr 7 '14 at 16:40
It's also possible all the other candidates are also having trouble committing to a four-hour interview.
– Amy Blankenship
Apr 7 '14 at 16:40
2
2
That is possible as well, though it is pretty common in the industry, but the best people are often employed and busy already so if you are only looking for the best that is a real possiblity.
– IDrinkandIKnowThings
Apr 7 '14 at 16:48
That is possible as well, though it is pretty common in the industry, but the best people are often employed and busy already so if you are only looking for the best that is a real possiblity.
– IDrinkandIKnowThings
Apr 7 '14 at 16:48
27
27
I once had to cancel on an 8 hour Saturday job interview due to a freak snow storm in October. I was driving out 3 of my friends too who happened to be interviewing for the same position, and 20 minutes into the 3 hour drive we had to turn around as my car was sliding on the highway. We called to let them know we couldn't make it and the hiring manager was furious. Come Monday, he refused to reschedule our interviews. That was probably for the best.
– zim2411
Apr 7 '14 at 19:20
I once had to cancel on an 8 hour Saturday job interview due to a freak snow storm in October. I was driving out 3 of my friends too who happened to be interviewing for the same position, and 20 minutes into the 3 hour drive we had to turn around as my car was sliding on the highway. We called to let them know we couldn't make it and the hiring manager was furious. Come Monday, he refused to reschedule our interviews. That was probably for the best.
– zim2411
Apr 7 '14 at 19:20
1
1
Thanks for the insight. I think you're probably right, but I think Amy makes a good point - I've had a few dozen interviews for similar positions in the same area, and it's the longest I've had so far in terms of total time commitment (due to their scheduling constraints, rather than total length of the actual interview).
– JuniorIncanter
Apr 7 '14 at 20:06
Thanks for the insight. I think you're probably right, but I think Amy makes a good point - I've had a few dozen interviews for similar positions in the same area, and it's the longest I've had so far in terms of total time commitment (due to their scheduling constraints, rather than total length of the actual interview).
– JuniorIncanter
Apr 7 '14 at 20:06
18
18
+1 - I'd add, though, that splitting up a 4 hour interview probably isn't really bending over backwards. Generally, for half-day interviews, you're really having several hour-long interviews with different people. There is no benefit to the company in doing that all in one day. The only reason to structure that as a single 4-hour interview is to save the candidate the effort of driving to the office 4 separate times. Splitting the interview up into 4 separate meetings on 4 separate days is really a pretty minor accommodation for the company to make.
– Justin Cave
Apr 7 '14 at 20:15
+1 - I'd add, though, that splitting up a 4 hour interview probably isn't really bending over backwards. Generally, for half-day interviews, you're really having several hour-long interviews with different people. There is no benefit to the company in doing that all in one day. The only reason to structure that as a single 4-hour interview is to save the candidate the effort of driving to the office 4 separate times. Splitting the interview up into 4 separate meetings on 4 separate days is really a pretty minor accommodation for the company to make.
– Justin Cave
Apr 7 '14 at 20:15
 |Â
show 4 more comments
up vote
17
down vote
Sounds to me like you're worrying too much. While the rest of the country may (or may not, depending on who you ask) be experiencing sluggish recovery and lingering unemployment and jobless rates, IT unemployment is extremely low or even negative (at least in my area), resulting in stiff competition for IT talent in most markets. You mention that your area is a hotbed of software development, so it seems to me that it's probably pretty likely that you're in a market where companies have to compete for development talent, rather than the other way around. So, with that in mind, I wouldn't see this a red flag (on its own), especially because this is certainly a situation that you don't have perfect information on.
They're definitely acting like they want to be as accommodating as possible to you, but that could be for many reasons, even independent of the competitive market for IT talent right now. Perhaps they're starting a new project, and need to hire engineers to deliver it. Perhaps someone important left recently, and they need to fill the opening. Perhaps you really blew them away on the phone interview, and they recognize your potential value. Or any number of other reasons that don't involve it being a bad place to work.
It's also very possible that you're experiencing the inverse relationship between knowledge and confidence that plagues a lot of intelligent, skilled individuals regarding your evaluation of your skillset.
Certainly, you should try to feel out the interviewers for why they're so accommodating, and maybe do some research on your own, like finding a developer or two that work there and taking them out for a meal (in exchange for information about the company), but this is good advice, regardless. Due your due diligence, but definitely don't let the fact that they're eager to accommodate you scare you off.
After all, what's the alternative? Working for someone who won't accommodate you during the interview process? That sounds like a serious red flag for a bad workplace. If they won't accommodate you while you're interviewing, what are the odds they'll be accommodating once you accept? Conversely, the fact that this company is accommodating to you now is a positive indication that they might be similarly accommodating to their employees, and not just their potential employees.
answered Apr 7 '14 at 16:25
HopelessN00b
9,78041753
I think your counterpoint regarding the alternative is really a good point. Doing some independent research hasn't thrown any red flags so far, and it seems well-reviewed on glassdoor.
– JuniorIncanter
Apr 7 '14 at 20:08
add a comment |Â
up vote
17
down vote
Sounds to me like you're worrying too much. While the rest of the country may (or may not, depending on who you ask) be experiencing sluggish recovery and lingering unemployment and jobless rates, IT unemployment is extremely low or even negative (at least in my area), resulting in stiff competition for IT talent in most markets. You mention that your area is a hotbed of software development, so it seems to me that it's probably pretty likely that you're in a market where companies have to compete for development talent, rather than the other way around. So, with that in mind, I wouldn't see this a red flag (on its own), especially because this is certainly a situation that you don't have perfect information on.
They're definitely acting like they want to be as accommodating as possible to you, but that could be for many reasons, even independent of the competitive market for IT talent right now. Perhaps they're starting a new project, and need to hire engineers to deliver it. Perhaps someone important left recently, and they need to fill the opening. Perhaps you really blew them away on the phone interview, and they recognize your potential value. Or any number of other reasons that don't involve it being a bad place to work.
It's also very possible that you're experiencing the inverse relationship between knowledge and confidence that plagues a lot of intelligent, skilled individuals regarding your evaluation of your skillset.
Certainly, you should try to feel out the interviewers for why they're so accommodating, and maybe do some research on your own, like finding a developer or two that work there and taking them out for a meal (in exchange for information about the company), but this is good advice, regardless. Due your due diligence, but definitely don't let the fact that they're eager to accommodate you scare you off.
After all, what's the alternative? Working for someone who won't accommodate you during the interview process? That sounds like a serious red flag for a bad workplace. If they won't accommodate you while you're interviewing, what are the odds they'll be accommodating once you accept? Conversely, the fact that this company is accommodating to you now is a positive indication that they might be similarly accommodating to their employees, and not just their potential employees.
answered Apr 7 '14 at 16:25
HopelessN00b
9,78041753
I think your counterpoint regarding the alternative is really a good point. Doing some independent research hasn't thrown any red flags so far, and it seems well-reviewed on glassdoor.
– JuniorIncanter
Apr 7 '14 at 20:08
add a comment |Â
up vote
17
down vote
up vote
17
down vote
Sounds to me like you're worrying too much. While the rest of the country may (or may not, depending on who you ask) be experiencing sluggish recovery and lingering unemployment and jobless rates, IT unemployment is extremely low or even negative (at least in my area), resulting in stiff competition for IT talent in most markets. You mention that your area is a hotbed of software development, so it seems to me that it's probably pretty likely that you're in a market where companies have to compete for development talent, rather than the other way around. So, with that in mind, I wouldn't see this a red flag (on its own), especially because this is certainly a situation that you don't have perfect information on.
They're definitely acting like they want to be as accommodating as possible to you, but that could be for many reasons, even independent of the competitive market for IT talent right now. Perhaps they're starting a new project, and need to hire engineers to deliver it. Perhaps someone important left recently, and they need to fill the opening. Perhaps you really blew them away on the phone interview, and they recognize your potential value. Or any number of other reasons that don't involve it being a bad place to work.
It's also very possible that you're experiencing the inverse relationship between knowledge and confidence that plagues a lot of intelligent, skilled individuals regarding your evaluation of your skillset.
Certainly, you should try to feel out the interviewers for why they're so accommodating, and maybe do some research on your own, like finding a developer or two that work there and taking them out for a meal (in exchange for information about the company), but this is good advice, regardless. Due your due diligence, but definitely don't let the fact that they're eager to accommodate you scare you off.
After all, what's the alternative? Working for someone who won't accommodate you during the interview process? That sounds like a serious red flag for a bad workplace. If they won't accommodate you while you're interviewing, what are the odds they'll be accommodating once you accept? Conversely, the fact that this company is accommodating to you now is a positive indication that they might be similarly accommodating to their employees, and not just their potential employees.
answered Apr 7 '14 at 16:25
HopelessN00b
9,78041753
Sounds to me like you're worrying too much. While the rest of the country may (or may not, depending on who you ask) be experiencing sluggish recovery and lingering unemployment and jobless rates, IT unemployment is extremely low or even negative (at least in my area), resulting in stiff competition for IT talent in most markets. You mention that your area is a hotbed of software development, so it seems to me that it's probably pretty likely that you're in a market where companies have to compete for development talent, rather than the other way around. So, with that in mind, I wouldn't see this a red flag (on its own), especially because this is certainly a situation that you don't have perfect information on.
They're definitely acting like they want to be as accommodating as possible to you, but that could be for many reasons, even independent of the competitive market for IT talent right now. Perhaps they're starting a new project, and need to hire engineers to deliver it. Perhaps someone important left recently, and they need to fill the opening. Perhaps you really blew them away on the phone interview, and they recognize your potential value. Or any number of other reasons that don't involve it being a bad place to work.
It's also very possible that you're experiencing the inverse relationship between knowledge and confidence that plagues a lot of intelligent, skilled individuals regarding your evaluation of your skillset.
Certainly, you should try to feel out the interviewers for why they're so accommodating, and maybe do some research on your own, like finding a developer or two that work there and taking them out for a meal (in exchange for information about the company), but this is good advice, regardless. Due your due diligence, but definitely don't let the fact that they're eager to accommodate you scare you off.
After all, what's the alternative? Working for someone who won't accommodate you during the interview process? That sounds like a serious red flag for a bad workplace. If they won't accommodate you while you're interviewing, what are the odds they'll be accommodating once you accept? Conversely, the fact that this company is accommodating to you now is a positive indication that they might be similarly accommodating to their employees, and not just their potential employees.
answered Apr 7 '14 at 16:25
HopelessN00b
9,78041753
answered Apr 7 '14 at 16:25
HopelessN00b
9,78041753
answered Apr 7 '14 at 16:25
HopelessN00b
9,78041753
answered Apr 7 '14 at 16:25
HopelessN00b
9,78041753
9,78041753
I think your counterpoint regarding the alternative is really a good point. Doing some independent research hasn't thrown any red flags so far, and it seems well-reviewed on glassdoor.
– JuniorIncanter
Apr 7 '14 at 20:08
add a comment |Â
I think your counterpoint regarding the alternative is really a good point. Doing some independent research hasn't thrown any red flags so far, and it seems well-reviewed on glassdoor.
– JuniorIncanter
Apr 7 '14 at 20:08
I think your counterpoint regarding the alternative is really a good point. Doing some independent research hasn't thrown any red flags so far, and it seems well-reviewed on glassdoor.
– JuniorIncanter
Apr 7 '14 at 20:08
I think your counterpoint regarding the alternative is really a good point. Doing some independent research hasn't thrown any red flags so far, and it seems well-reviewed on glassdoor.
– JuniorIncanter
Apr 7 '14 at 20:08
add a comment |Â
up vote
0
down vote
Yes, it's usually a bad sign if the company bends over backwards.
However, in your case they are only being flexible for a good candidate, not "bending over backwards".
It's a 4 hours interview, which is hard to do for an employee already working, and most of the good candidates are employed while interviewing.
And 5 years of experience cannot be considered "inexperienced", you are a valuable candidate. You are not an Ace in the deck, but J or Q at least. Enjoy.
answered Aug 24 '16 at 10:48
Necati Hakan Erdogan
36929
add a comment |Â
up vote
0
down vote
Yes, it's usually a bad sign if the company bends over backwards.
However, in your case they are only being flexible for a good candidate, not "bending over backwards".
It's a 4 hours interview, which is hard to do for an employee already working, and most of the good candidates are employed while interviewing.
And 5 years of experience cannot be considered "inexperienced", you are a valuable candidate. You are not an Ace in the deck, but J or Q at least. Enjoy.
answered Aug 24 '16 at 10:48
Necati Hakan Erdogan
36929
add a comment |Â
up vote
0
down vote
up vote
0
down vote
Yes, it's usually a bad sign if the company bends over backwards.
However, in your case they are only being flexible for a good candidate, not "bending over backwards".
It's a 4 hours interview, which is hard to do for an employee already working, and most of the good candidates are employed while interviewing.
And 5 years of experience cannot be considered "inexperienced", you are a valuable candidate. You are not an Ace in the deck, but J or Q at least. Enjoy.
answered Aug 24 '16 at 10:48
Necati Hakan Erdogan
36929
Yes, it's usually a bad sign if the company bends over backwards.
However, in your case they are only being flexible for a good candidate, not "bending over backwards".
It's a 4 hours interview, which is hard to do for an employee already working, and most of the good candidates are employed while interviewing.
And 5 years of experience cannot be considered "inexperienced", you are a valuable candidate. You are not an Ace in the deck, but J or Q at least. Enjoy.
answered Aug 24 '16 at 10:48
Necati Hakan Erdogan
36929
edited Aug 24 '16 at 12:36
answered Aug 24 '16 at 10:48
Necati Hakan Erdogan
36929
answered Aug 24 '16 at 10:48
Necati Hakan Erdogan
36929
answered Aug 24 '16 at 10:48
Necati Hakan Erdogan
36929
36929
add a comment |Â
add a comment |Â
up vote
-1
down vote
If it's the sort of job that makes sense for you, you should perceive a four hour interview as something fun where you'll get to do all sorts of new, interesting and challenging things.
If you feel as though it would be a hassle, then why would you even consider the job in the first place? Do something you want to do instead.
answered Jul 25 '14 at 14:08
Code Whisperer
1,822618
add a comment |Â
up vote
-1
down vote
If it's the sort of job that makes sense for you, you should perceive a four hour interview as something fun where you'll get to do all sorts of new, interesting and challenging things.
If you feel as though it would be a hassle, then why would you even consider the job in the first place? Do something you want to do instead.
answered Jul 25 '14 at 14:08
Code Whisperer
1,822618
add a comment |Â
up vote
-1
down vote
up vote
-1
down vote
If it's the sort of job that makes sense for you, you should perceive a four hour interview as something fun where you'll get to do all sorts of new, interesting and challenging things.
If you feel as though it would be a hassle, then why would you even consider the job in the first place? Do something you want to do instead.
answered Jul 25 '14 at 14:08
Code Whisperer
1,822618
If it's the sort of job that makes sense for you, you should perceive a four hour interview as something fun where you'll get to do all sorts of new, interesting and challenging things.
If you feel as though it would be a hassle, then why would you even consider the job in the first place? Do something you want to do instead.
answered Jul 25 '14 at 14:08
Code Whisperer
1,822618
answered Jul 25 '14 at 14:08
Code Whisperer
1,822618
answered Jul 25 '14 at 14:08
Code Whisperer
1,822618
answered Jul 25 '14 at 14:08
Code Whisperer
1,822618
1,822618
add a comment |Â
add a comment |Â
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1
How did the first interview go? Interviews are about getting to know the company as well as them getting to know you. Do you know more about the company and their goals than you did before the phone screening, or is it just as mysterious? Are they selling genuine imitation Gucci hand bags? Also, you should know that half-day interviews are not all that unusual, and some positions are difficult to fill for whatever reason (geographic location, etc.).
– Robert Harvey
Apr 7 '14 at 16:01
4
Hey Junior, and welcome to The Workplace! Is there any chance you could address some of the concerns raised in the comments to make an edit and focus your question a little better? What makes you concerned this is a red flag? What makes you think this is a problem that needs solving? If you just want to bounce ideas off someone, The Workplace Chat may be a better place for that. Thanks in advance!
– jmac
Apr 7 '14 at 23:41
4
Comments removed. Please use comments to clarify/improve the question. To answer the question, please post an answer. For extended discussion, please use The Workplace Chat.
– yoozer8
Apr 8 '14 at 12:48
I'll just point out that 4 hours is a significant investment in time for them too - if they are willing to do this in the first place then they must consider you valuable - you may be one of two or three remaining candidates and they don't want to restrict their choice based on the fact that the interview scheduling is difficult for you.
– colmde
Aug 24 '16 at 11:01
...also I wouldn't call it bending over backwards, just being accommodating - they aren't sending a helicopter to pick you up and bring you to a champagne reception...
– colmde
Aug 24 '16 at 11:05