This time we are looking into business recruiting processes! While every company is slightly different, most consulting firms, investment banks, and corporations follow a surprisingly similar 5-stage journey from application to offer.
Knowing these stages helps you identify exactly where you are and what's coming next in any recruiting process.
Engagement Message
Can you guess what the very first stage might be?
Here are the 5 standard stages most business recruiters follow: Application Review, Phone Screening, First Round Interview, Final Round Interview, and Reference/Offer Process.
Each stage has specific goals and different people involved in making decisions.
Engagement Message
Which stage do you think eliminates the most candidates?
Stage 1 is Application Review - someone (usually a campus recruiter or HR coordinator) reviews your resume and decides if you meet basic requirements.
This happens within days to weeks of applying, with many firms having GPA cutoffs, target school lists, or specific experience requirements.
Engagement Message
What's one factor that might speed up this review stage?
Stage 2 is Phone/Video Screening - a recruiter has a brief conversation to verify your interest and basic qualifications.
This typically lasts 15-30 minutes and focuses on your interest in specific practice areas, office preferences, and relevant coursework or experience.
Engagement Message
Why do you think companies do phone screens before in-person interviews?
Stage 3 is the First Round Interview - usually with analysts, associates, or managers who would be your colleagues.
This often includes case interviews for consulting roles or technical questions for finance positions, plus behavioral questions about your experience.
Engagement Message
What's one question you would ask the interviewer at this stage?
