Executives at the firm knew me and recruited me. The interview process for me was informal. After a verbal offer and acceptance, I quickly received an offer letter via email and postal mail. I requested an increase in vacation, and receved a new letter with the change. After signing and returning the offer letter, I received an email from HR asking me complete and submit an online application. I complied with this request. So, I completed the HR application form after my offer was formally executed. When I met in person with HR for my orientation, I signed consent forms forms for background and reference checks, a noncompete agreement (which was very fair to the employee compared to other NCs I have been asked to sign), and other standard new employee documents. The orientation training toook place on my first day of employment - a Monday (this is typical - unless circumstances prohibit an employee from starting on a Monday). Training lasts from 8:30 to 12:00. An ICF "buddy" and a group of colleagues takes new employees to lunch. I had a buddy help me with a new employee check list (equipment, systems, culture, space, projects, clients, etc. for the first three months at ICF. In addition, to the first-day orientation training, all new employees are required within the first 30 days to sign up for new-hire orientation training: "Your First Year at ICF."