I was approached by a representative from Edelman on linkedin. I was offered a position due to my exposure as a researcher in different sectors. I was invited to have several interviews. The first was the Director himself, the second was the user. The third one happened due to change of their corporate structure. Apparently I was transferred to another relatively new division who needs someone understands about research methodology.
the first interview was just a general question, the director wanted to know what I have been working on and what are my interests. After the interview, the director asked me to send some samples of my previous research/writings which I sent not too long immediately. Since the HR didn't answer, I asked for a confirmation and the HR replied the email has been forwarded to the director and the user. few days later, I got an invitation for another interview.
the second interview, the user asked me more practical questions. the user gave me two case studies based on their real case studies. which showed me how I would design a solution based on research methodology before offering solution to clients. the second question was tougher and I asked her for a time (which she gave me). After three days, I followed up, the HR said the interview was good and the user was impressed and they were preparing for a contract.
After a week, I followed up the email. The HR replied that there was a change of management, thus I needed to have another interview. I complied and met another user whose division pretty much clicked with my background. I was interviewed for almost two hours. Basically the user familiarised myself what the team would do.
After the interview was finished, I went to the HR room got the contract and was asked to bring the contract on my first day of working.
This is probably one of the most professional interview experience I ever had. With a very good process such as a very responsive HR and fair interview questions by the users.
The catch: salary wise, I put range of a lower threshold and upper threshold, hoping they would give me a middle. But no, they gave me the lowest threshold, which is basically my last salary (still okay since it's will be reviewed after a year).
the initial contract is 6 months