The hiring process was all over the place, and definitely had highs and lows. The first stage was a pre-screening interview where you spoke with one of the HR representatives. It went well, and the HR person was really helpful and kind. He informed me that the next stage would be three back to back interviews with Research Managers, followed by a final interview with some of the senior people. I had advanced to the second stage and had three consecutive 30 minute interviews. The first one gauged how much you knew about the company and how well you would fit in. The second was a role-play exercise and the third was a case study. The interviews were conducted via a conference link that was sent to me. Personally, the first Research Manager was on a huge power trip and his arrogance really suffocated me through the computer screen. I got the impression that this was the type of culture at this company. The second and third interviewers made better impressions and were more encouraging. All in all, the impression that I got was that this was basically a “modern” telemarketing centre. I don’t think the first interviewer appreciated my telling him that cold-calling isn’t the best strategy in a saturated consulting market, and that hybridized or more innovative methods should be utilized. It was definitely a mixed experience, and I accept the result (and am a little grateful because I think I dodged a bullet on this one).