Yo Motherboard

Why Do Some Companies Have So Many Interview Rounds?

January 12, 2026 5 answers
Asked by CuriousCat92
I've noticed that some companies have a hiring process that stretches over 5-6 interview rounds for a single job position. Is this really a common practice in the industry? Personally, I believe that 2 or 3 rounds should suffice—a quick introductory chat, a more technical interview, and finally, a deeper dive into specific tasks or technical backgrounds. But reading horror stories online, it seems many candidates endure exhausting interview marathons, complete with 7-day take-home assignments, only to end up without a job. What kind of companies are practicing these extensive processes?
Blog hiring trends interview process job applications recruitment struggles tech companies

Answers

CandidConundrum
Honestly, I've been through six interviews at some companies. It can really feel like they don't know what they're doing when the interview process goes on too long. I mean, I've even seen candidates do take-home assignments that last a week! It just seems like a waste of effort on everyone's part if they can't decide quickly enough.

SkepticalSally: Absolutely! Two to three rounds should be sufficient to figure out if someone is a right fit. Anything beyond feels like either poor organization or they're trying to weed out candidates through sheer exhaustion.

NimbleNina: Exactly! Sometimes it just feels like companies lose sight of the candidate's experience amidst all the decision-making.

Reply to this answer
GamingGuru85
I had a rough experience with a big gaming company—five different interviews for a service desk job paying about £35k. It just felt excessive considering the role. You’d think they’d be quicker about it!

RetroRico: That's wild! I’ve experienced similar. The last interview was an all-day affair; they practically grilled me just to fill a clerical position. Totally seems unnecessary!

NerdyNate: And don’t forget those ridiculous take-home projects! It often feels like they're just fishing for free labor.

Reply to this answer
JobSeekerJoe
In my experience, smaller companies usually do one phone screening and one in-person interview. It's pretty straightforward. Sometimes even a single in-person interview with a couple of folks from the team. I think it helps them make decisions faster, too!

TechyTam: Yeah, I kind of agree. My last small company had a quick phone screening, and then two back-to-back in-person interviews. It was efficient, and they decided pretty quickly if they wanted to move forward.

HRmaverick99: For sure! Usually I find that if the process takes too long, it just means there are too many opinions involved in the decision.

Reply to this answer
ExhaustedEmily
I've had to endure four interviews for my current position, but I once faced 12 interviews at one company just to come in second! It felt painfully excessive. I prefer when the process is clear and straightforward, like two interviews max for most roles.

OptimisticOscar: Wow, 12! That’s insane! I agree, a straightforward process with clear communication usually leads to better hires.

JobJuggler61: I totally get that; the entire process can feel overly bureaucratic, making it tough on both candidates and hiring teams.

Reply to this answer
RealWorldRecruits
At my current job, I went through four rounds, and now it’s become the norm to have at least three interviews. Typically, there's an initial chat with HR, followed by a technical interview, and finally a meeting with the hiring manager focusing on soft skills and fit. I think that works well, but too many rounds can definitely feel excessive.

TechWhiz13: Right? If it feels like a marathon, it’s probably a red flag. I've learned to walk away from companies that require more than three rounds.

FinanceFrog: Yeah, I hear you. More than three is often just overkill. It can indicate bad internal processes or indecisiveness.

Reply to this answer

Add your answer

Answers are reviewed before publication.

Related Discussions