1. Application & Shortlisting
What happens: You submit your resume (and sometimes a cover letter or portfolio).
Company’s role: HR or the hiring manager reviews applications to shortlist candidates whose qualifications match the job description.
Tips: Ensure your resume is well-structured, ATS-friendly, and tailored to the specific job.
📞 2. Initial Screening (Telephonic/Virtual)
Purpose: To verify your basic fit for the role (skills, experience, communication, salary expectations, etc.).
Conducted by: HR or a recruiter.
Duration: 10–30 minutes.
Tip: Be concise and professional — it sets the tone for future rounds.
💻 3. Technical / Skill Assessment (if applicable)
Purpose: To evaluate your job-specific abilities.
Format: Could be an online test, coding challenge, case study, or written task.
Common in: IT, finance, analytics, marketing, and design roles.
Tip: Practice common test formats related to your field.
🗣️ 4. Technical / Functional Interview
What happens: One or more rounds with team leads or department heads.
Focus areas:
Practical knowledge and problem-solving
Past experience and project handling
Tools and methodologies you use
Tip: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to explain your experience.
👥 5. Managerial / Behavioral Interview
Purpose: To assess your attitude, teamwork, leadership, and how you handle challenges.
Typical questions:
“Tell me about a time you handled conflict.”
“Describe your biggest achievement.”
Tip: Show emotional intelligence, reliability, and adaptability.
💬 6. HR / Final Interview
What happens: HR discusses salary expectations, notice period, company culture, and fit.
Tip: Be honest but strategic about compensation expectations; show genuine interest in the company.
✉️ 7. Offer & Onboarding
Steps:
You receive a formal offer letter (sometimes after reference/background checks).
Once accepted, HR provides onboarding details.
Tip: Read the offer carefully — verify salary structure, benefits, and joining conditions.