Cook County (Illinois) Interview Questions
& Process

Had two interviews, both online. First was a half-hour screening interview checking my interests and summarizing my work history. The second was an hour long and focused on problem-solving, how I interact with others, and my thoughts on what's important for this role. They usually get back to you within a business week after each interview.

There were three rounds, and the questions were pretty much the same in each. A big part of the process involves having current employees vouch for you to the interviewers. Most of the questions focused on things like chain of command, challenges you might face, and your past experience.

The process was very structured, and I had to ask questions of all the applicants. The panel asked questions, and I had to record all the answers. HR was present to observe. Some questions, the applicants couldn't answer. Once the process started, I couldn't contact anyone except HR, which was a disadvantage when I wanted to ask follow-up questions about the position. Benefits are very structured and vary in generosity, so make sure to ask about them and find out how long you have to work before vacation time, etc., increases.

I found out about this Policy Director position through a commissioner’s social media page and reached out via email. They responded within two days, and we scheduled an in-person interview for the following week. I was sick with COVID the day before, so we switched to Zoom. The interview focused on my experience with community members and organizations, and my policy knowledge. We also discussed our values and experiences. They mentioned it was a new role and might evolve. The commissioner contacted my references the next two days, and I received a job offer the day after that. The quick turnaround was appreciated. My start date was delayed a few weeks because I was out of state and had to wait for the start of a pay period, which was a bit of a downside, but the commissioner advocated for me to start sooner.