NerdWallet Journalist Interview Questions
& Process

After talking with a recruiter and hiring manager, I got an editing test. I spent a lot of time on it. After a few days without hearing back, I followed up with the recruiter and found out they hadn't even looked at it yet. When they finally got back to me, it was a generic rejection email. I asked for feedback on my test, but never got a response. For a company that focuses on content and communication, they could be better at treating candidates respectfully. If you're asking people to do unpaid editing tests, the least you can do is respond promptly and follow up. My experience made me not want to apply again and also stop being a customer.

I was contacted by a recruiter about a Copy Editor role at NerdWallet. We scheduled a 35-40 minute interview with a content chief. I felt it went well, and considering my situation as a widower and single dad wanting to work remote full-time, I expected to move forward. The process involves an editing test and more interviews after this initial one. However, three days later, the recruiter informed me they were proceeding with other candidates, with no specific reason given, just 'best wishes.' I thought the interview was strong and I met the requirements. I wish NerdWallet was more transparent about their process. I'm wondering what I did wrong and how I can improve for future applications.

I first talked to a recruiter, then did an editing test. After that, I had some panel interviews on Zoom, followed by a one-on-one meeting with a top editor on Zoom. It was a lot but I appreciated getting able to meet several people who would become my colleagues.