Outlier.org Interview Questions
& Process

I was recruited via linkedin and was sent a project to complete within 7 days. The project included questions and other materials to be used to assess my ability to create content for a new course offering. Once, I submitted the "project" I was in receipt of an email that stated they did not need to continue our conversation any further within 24 hours. I reached out for feedback about the process and it was ok but I found it odd that they were so interested in speaking to me and just needed the project and then didnt want to spend anytime getting to know me. The project was write questions for a business course based on a specific chapter of a specific text. I think maybe if they need material to create their course they might want to just ask for the material instead of request projects (?).

My interview process started in February 2021 with a few interview rounds. It was easy at first, and I even got a project to do and present. Then I was supposed to meet the company head, but the meeting got canceled the day before without any reason. I asked my recruiter if I was still being considered, and she said yes. A few days later, I got an automated email saying the recruitment was paused. This was weird since it was a Saturday afternoon and after all the interviews and the project, I thought I'd at least get a personal message. I emailed my recruiter again to see if the email was correct. She said she'd check and get back to me. Another week went by with no word, and then I got another automated message saying I was no longer being considered. It felt like they were trying to reject me in a confusing way. I was annoyed and just wanted a real person to tell me I didn't get the job. So, I emailed my recruiter one last time for an official explanation, and she finally told me I was rejected. That's fine, but I was frustrated that after 4 or 5 interview rounds, a project, and a canceled meeting with the CEO, they couldn't just give me a straight answer unless I pushed for it. I feel like my time is valuable too, and not getting the same respect I gave them left a bad impression. Also, I was supposed to get paid $75 for the project, but after sending my invoice, I never got paid. I had to follow up twice to get my direct deposit. I know it's a new company, but basic courtesy shouldn't be sacrificed.

So I applied online and was immediately asked to do a one-way interview, which involved recording myself answering three questions. After that, I had to complete a 3-hour trial project, which they said would pay $25/hour. This was all before I'd even spoken to anyone on the phone or video. It felt a bit like they were looking for free advice, and honestly, the whole trial project thing, while compensated, felt a bit off since I hadn't connected with anyone yet. I submitted it anyway, and a week later, got rejected. Still waiting on that $75 stipend, which feels a little like being misled.

They asked me about my academic background, teaching duties, and experience with learning management systems like Blackboard. I also got to ask about the timeline, project scope, and who I'd report to. The interviewers were friendly and answered all my questions thoroughly, giving me space to explain my skills and experience.