I interviewed for a Procurement Agent position with the U.S. Embassy in Singapore.
I applied online and received a phone call about 3 weeks later, asking for an in-person interview. It should be noted, I was not asked for a pre-screening phone interview. Which is a standard practice in the U.S. but I guess not here.
While I was on the phone with their HR, scheduling my appointment. I asked how many people I would be meeting with and for an average for how long (so I could schedule my day & print out enough copies of my resume and recommendations). I was told it was going to be a panel interview of the whole Procurement department. A group of 5 people. The HR person did not tell me for how long.
I arrived a little early to the appointment, which was fine. They were running right on schedule. I was shown to the interview room and only the HR person and 2 other people from the Procurement team were present for the interview.
I introduced myself and told them a little about my background and experience. After that, the panel only asked 2 questions and that was it. It was maybe a 5 minute interview, if that.
I asked follow up questions about the position, about the department and about their culture. Their answers and level of enthusiasm and interest was about as stimulating as a grain of rice.
My final question was, "what is next to be expected in your interview process?" and the HR person said that they follow up with each candidate within a couple of weeks.
To which, one of the interviewers said, "Really?"
It's been over 5 months and I haven't received any communication (phone call, text, email or letter).
Feedback to their management about their interview processes. Conduct pre screening phone interviews. They will bring efficiency, are time savers (for all parties involved), and speed up the process for hiring.
