This was probably the worst interviewing experience I've ever had, and as a recruiter, I think that's saying a lot considering the empathy I have for what happens behind-the-scenes in fast-growing companies.
I had a phone interview with one of their recruiters and was invited for an in-person quickly. At this point, they were nearing their LA launch and I think their recruiters were extremely overworked, so I understood why they wanted to move so fast. I was given a demo of their product and had the chance to speak to a current customer (who was not very happy with his experience), and then interviewed with members of the recruiting team as well as the cofounder.
I thought the interviewers from the recruiting team did a good job of being transparent re: the needs of the role (they want someone who's comfortable working 70+ hours a week since they're growing quickly), but I wouldn't describe the process as especially warm or welcoming given how mission-driven their organization is.
Then things went really south when I spoke to their cofounder. The interview itself seemed like a game of "gotcha." I felt like he was trying to use my answers against me, turning scenarios around to catch me off-guard. While I respect trying to find someone who is cool under pressure and can hold their ground, I find this type of abrasive questioning (especially when you're making rude remarks to the candidate) very unprofessional and just downright mean. I originally applied to the position because I wanted to work towards something I believed in, but the cofounder came off very pretentious and holier-than-thou. I think the best words to describe how I felt are attacked and patronized. I left feeling like I've just had my face rubbed in
the mud—overall, not a leader I would want to work with, let alone, work for.
They're likely experiencing some growing pains and I do believe they're sincere in their desire to change the healthcare industry. But they have much to improve upon in regards to scaling their recruiting process, candidate experience, and overall training of their team members to interview fairly and kindly.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Questions on background, experience, comfort working long hours, what I enjoy doing outside of work, etc.
Straight forward interview that had pre made questions in a video format. It did not take a lot of time, so just make a list of potential questions and prepare answers.
I applied through other source. The process took 3 weeks. I interviewed at Forward (San Francisco, CA) in Jun 2022
Interview
The interview process is extremely long and they are not transparent about pay/what role you're interviewing for. First round was a 30 min interview, 2nd round was 2 30 min interviews, and final round was an in person interview with 4 different people that lasted for 2 hours and I had to complete an assignment beforehand that took 4 hours. They were not transparent at all about compensation and I did not get good vibes from about the culture. Seems like you either drink the cool-aid or you don't and if you aren't willing to work 60+ hours a week and get underpaid then you will be outcasted or made to feel as if you don't support the "mission". Explains why most of their staff are new grads.
I applied online. I interviewed at Forward in Apr 2022
Interview
Forward has multiple rounds of interviews - up to four sessions total. The first is a screener where they share about the company and asks you general questions. The second round was with three separate members of their team. It felt very conversational and they were more interested in getting to know you beyond your resume. Overall, they're pretty streamline and informative with the process. They will send you a link to set up preferred dates, and provide a timeline. Their emails are helpful with receiving reminders, and who exactly you'll be talking to.