The interview process was very simply, though a little lengthy upfront. I applied on Northrop's website, and was contacted by a hiring manager approx 3 weeks later. I had a brief phone conversation, and scheduled a follow-up interview for the next day. The in person interview itself was very simple, though it is likely to be more dependent on the hiring manager, more than anything. My interview was very much like a conversation, as opposed to a behavioral based question interrogation. The hiring manager spoke about the company and the role itself, and from there a conversation just evolved. It sounded like a really unique experience, as the hiring manager was building up a team. I left the interview with a great feeling, thinking I found a perfect fit.
After the interview, is where it went downhill. I was contacted by a HR representative. The HR rep said the feedback she received was very positive, and that they'd like to proceed with my candidacy. After a few calls back and forth, I received a verbal offer. Everything just disintegrated after this, because I wasn't given any information beyond my annual salary. All I was told was that the benefits package was "very comprehensive" and in line with competitors in the industry and area. I found this absolutely ridiculous. Every company I have very worked/applied to, provided this information without any hesitation. When I reached out to an individual within the same team I would be working on at Northrop, I was questioned by HR regarding my intentions, when all I wanted was to learn about the company culture and dynamics. It appears that being interested in the specifics of benefits is going too far. I also never received a written offer, only verbal. According to HR, a written offer would require too much clerical work, and they needed a commitment before they would consider writing up an offer. I received a verbal offer on a Friday. I had reconnected with the recruiter Monday afternoon, and on Tuesday I was told that the offer had been rescinded. Apparently, I hadn't given my commitment quick enough, and HR was questioning whether I was interested in the role itself, or just a payday. Funny, because I had an offer from a direct competitor with a more comprehensive package. Well, thank you Northrop. Your lack of professionalism knows no bounds, and has made my employment decision very easy.