R.R. Donnelley Graphic Designer Interview Questions
& Process

I had a really unprofessional initial interview today. A Senior Talent Acquisition Partner messaged me to set up a 30-minute call, but then the call didn't happen at the scheduled time. After I followed up to reschedule, I didn't hear back for about 1.5 hours, then she called me out of the blue. She briefly mentioned that the job was for a Home Depot client and that they needed someone with retail experience. When I asked about the salary, she asked me what I was looking for, and I said 90K for a senior role. Then she told me their budget was only 75K, even though the job posting said the range was up to 111K. I had to say no. 75K is what a designer at a lower-mid level makes around here, not a senior designer. If you want senior-level work, you need to pay senior-level rates. It's disappointing and frustrating when companies advertise one thing but offer something completely different. Hiring processes need to be professional and transparent, and this was definitely not that.

I received an email from RRD about a graphic designer opening. They shortlisted me and there were 4 rounds: general qualification details, a technical round, a manager interview, and salary discussions. The whole interview process was finished in 2 days, and I got the offer within 3 days. This might differ depending on the position you apply for.

I got the placement offer 4 days before the interview. On the day of the interview, HR asked the male candidates to tuck in their shirts, which is odd for a graphic design job. This is a permanent role, and if selected, you need to sign a 24-month bond and submit your original educational certificates. There's a 6-month probation period, and you can be terminated if you don't perform well. The salary is 12k INR per month, with potential for increases based on company policy. The work week is 6 days, unlike the typical 5-day week in Technopark. Usually, you'll be working night shifts, starting from 7 PM. Night shift workers get free cab and food. A strict rule is that employees cannot use their mobile phones during work hours; phones are locked in small lockers, and you get a tag to retrieve them, even if you're just interviewing. Surprisingly, the job isn't really graphic design; it's mostly image editing that doesn't require creativity, just Photoshop skills. Honestly, I don't think this is a good work environment, and there's no room for creative growth.