1. Application & Resume Screening • Purpose: Identify candidates who meet the basic qualifications. • Conducted by: HR or a recruiter. • Tools used: Applicant tracking systems (ATS) may auto-filter resumes. ⸻ 2. Initial Contact / Phone Screening • Purpose: Confirm interest, availability, salary expectations, and basic fit. • Duration: 15–30 minutes. • Conducted by: Recruiter or HR representative. ⸻ 3. First-Round Interview • Format: Could be phone, video, or in-person. • Purpose: Assess skills, experience, communication, and cultural fit. • Conducted by: Hiring manager or team lead. ⸻ 4. Technical or Skills Assessment (if applicable) • Types: • Coding tests (e.g. for software engineers) • Writing samples • Case studies • Role-specific tasks • Purpose: Evaluate hands-on abilities and problem-solving. ⸻ 5. Second-Round / Panel Interviews • Format: Video or in-person; may include multiple interviewers. • Purpose: Deep dive into technical, behavioral, and situational questions. • May include: • STAR method questions • Team fit assessments • Leadership or scenario-based questions ⸻ 6. Final Interview / Executive Interview • Audience: Senior leadership or executives. • Focus: Cultural alignment, strategic thinking, long-term vision. ⸻ 7. Reference Checks • Conducted by: HR or hiring manager. • Purpose: Validate candidate’s history and performance.