The process began with a brief phone call with the recruiter. This consisted of a few standard questions, such as "What's your background?" and "What are you working on now?"

This was followed by an on-site interview with the same recruiter. It involved a more in-depth conversation about background, skills, and work history, with a focus on the applicant's personality.

After spending an hour with the recruiter, I sat down with the team manager. We discussed the state of their projects, goals, and difficulties, and where I would be able to help if I joined. Overall, it was refreshingly candid.

By the end of the week, I received a call letting me know that, despite the job description, they were in fact looking for a manager rather than an engineer.

What year did you graduate?