Council on Foreign Relations Associate Interview Questions
& Process

I sent in my application online with a cover letter and resume. About two weeks after, I heard back from the HR person and set up a 15-minute pre-screen interview with them for the following week. After that, I had a 30-minute video interview a week later with two deputy directors from the department. The questions were about my experience and working style. Then, I had a 30-minute interview a week after that with the managing director of the program, which was the final round. The HR person then sent me a writing test. It was a 5-part test that I had to complete in 1 hour and 15 minutes, which felt a little rushed, but it was straightforward and asked me to write samples of tasks I'd do on the job.

It took 2 months and 1 week from applying to accepting the offer, with 5 rounds total. First, a super quick (under 10 min) HR call. Then, a 1-hour video interview split between HR and the director (30 mins each). After that, I had a 2-hour take-home assessment to test my research skills. Next, a 30-minute video call with some junior employees. Finally, a 30-minute video call with 2 senior employees, though only one showed up. I got an offer at the very low end of the stated salary range. I tried to negotiate for more, but they said the salary was final after a week. I took the offer. I only found the timed assessment difficult; the video and phone interviews were pretty average and easy.

It was a traditional phone screen, then I interviewed with the recruiter, then with someone who is currently in the role, and then with the Director. After all of that, there was a reference check that included my current supervisor. After 4 interviews and a reference check, I never heard back about whether I got the job. I think that's totally unprofessional.