The Achievement Network Interview Questions
& Process

First, I had to answer three questions via video and submit them within 3 days. It felt a bit strange doing a video interview before even an intro call. Then, there was a quick 5-minute intro call where they didn't share much about the role, team, or my responsibilities. Next, I had to complete a test sample based on a prompt and also submit a 3-5 page slide deck for a case study or recent project. They said to spend 3 hours on it, but it took way longer. It was odd to get a test project request before talking to a hiring manager, especially since I still didn't know much about the team or the job. I did the project sample without a clear idea of what they were looking for. After submitting the two-part test sample, I got an automated rejection email with no feedback. I never really understood what the job entailed or what I'd be working on throughout the process. This whole experience felt negative and disrespectful, like a gauntlet rather than a two-way conversation. It's unlikely to attract good candidates.

It was pretty standard -- application review, a phone screen, then a performance task, followed by two in-person rounds. The initial phone call was with a recruiter who seemed to be flying blind, not really knowing the role or the company vibe. I was surprised they led with salary questions. The performance task, which took about an hour, actually gave me a clearer picture of what the job entailed. Once I got to the in-person stages, I got a much better feel for the role by talking to the people I'd be working with, both on my potential team and others I'd interact with.

I got invited to do one of those recorded interviews where I respond to prompts. I finished it on time, but it's been six weeks and I haven't heard back or gotten any updates about delays. Yeah, the holidays were in between, but since I took the time to respond, they could at least send out a group email about expected timelines. It definitely didn't leave a good impression, especially for a high-level role, and has really soured my view of the company. They could have used a VP of Talent for this experience.

I saw the job on Idealist and it caught my eye because I want to work for a nonprofit in an admin/ops role. I'd done similar stuff before, so I applied with a cover letter and resume. About a week and a half later, I got an automated email to schedule a phone interview. I picked a Wednesday afternoon slot. I prepped by researching the company and my answers on Wednesday morning. Wednesday at 1 pm came and went, no call. I figured they ghosted me or found someone else. Then around 2:30, an automated email from the interviewer said there was a system 'glitch' and she missed the scheduled call. They offered to reschedule for later that week, but only had Thursday slots. I rescheduled for Thursday at 11 am, but thought the 'glitch' excuse was weird given their system. The Thursday call itself was stilted. The interviewer seemed rushed, asking scripted questions that didn't let me talk much. It felt like she just wanted to get through it for her next call. Typing responses made the conversation lag. I asked about the dress code, company culture, how long people usually stay, if I could shadow someone, and the start date. Her answers were generic. She mentioned her observations from the Boston office. She said they'd decide by Monday and the next step would be a take-home assessment I'd have 48 hours to complete. But the day after, I got a rejection email.