The hiring manager took the diligence to contact me and get to know my strength and experience. This is rare and most hiring managers didn't get the opportunity to do so because HR won't let it happen. You can't relax unless you already knew these people. This trumps diversity and you're expected to manage upwards. If you can please the top guy, then you shouldn't have any problem in getting hired.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
The interview process is not about understanding your ability, but more to see if you can be a fit. That's a challenge unless you already know "how" to speak up. I was asked for an experience that is not listed in the job description, which is generic and vague to begin with, and no wonder I was not qualified. They also make you meet with several stakeholders and partners though it only matters if the top guy says "yes" so it's kind of a waste of time. Find someone via linkedin before interview so you can be prepared to see who you're dealing with.
I applied through an employee referral. The process took 3 months. I interviewed at Visa Inc. (Foster City, CA)
Interview
I was screened over the phone by a recruiter, and then scheduled for interviews with 3 individuals. There were two openings in the same department, so I was interviewed by the V.P. and the hiring manager for each of the jobs. (NOTE: This was 11 years ago, the interview process has become much more rigorous since then!)
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Tell us why you believe you are a good fit for this particular position?