What the typical selection process for IT jobs is

At Proficed, we believe in a comprehensive selection process to ensure that we hire the best talent. The interview rounds vary based on the position you are applying for, but generally, they assess three core skills:

1. English Language and Comprehension
2. Reasoning and Problem-Solving
3. Technical Proficiency

Our selection process consists of six rounds, each designed to evaluate different aspects of a candidate's profile. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

Round 0: Shortlisting

This round is all about assessing the quality of your application. We review:

• If the resume/CV is self-created
• Formatting and structure of the resume/CV
• Submission format (PDF required)
• Whether the design is templated or genuinely self-created
• Whether it appears to be a modified version of someone else's resume/CV
• Originality of the cover letter and application email (ChatGPT-generated content is not acceptable)
• Any grammatical or spelling errors

How to Prepare:

1. Create Your Own Resume: Avoid using generic templates from online resume builders. Showcase your skills and experience in a format that’s unique to you.
2. Polish Your Writing: Proofread your resume and cover letter for grammatical and spelling errors. Consider getting feedback from peers or using online tools like Grammarly.
3. Write a Personalized Cover Letter: Be sure to write a genuine cover letter. Don’t rely on AI-generated text, as it will be flagged. Make it specific to the job you're applying for at Proficed.

Pro Tips to clear this round:

1. 4 Surprising Resume Expectations from Recruiters
2. 8 Common Resume Blunders That Can Cost You the Job

Round 1: 15-Minute Online Interview

This brief but crucial round focuses on professionalism, seriousness, and suitability for the role. Conducted by senior team members, we assess:

• Punctuality in joining the online meeting
• Whether the candidate has a distraction-free environment suitable for remote work
• Their ability to resolve basic technical issues (e.g., microphone, webcam, internet)
• Internet speed and connectivity
• Grooming and professional attire

The interview includes:

• A brief introduction
• 5-7 challenging technical questions
• 2-3 questions related to the candidate's CV/resume

This round is highly competitive, with 99% of candidates being rejected. To move forward, candidates need to be punctual, concise, and answer questions directly—no second chances are given beyond the 15 minutes.

How to Prepare:

1. Test Your Tech Setup: Make sure your internet connection is strong and reliable. Test your webcam and microphone before the interview to avoid last-minute technical issues.
2. Create a Professional Environment: Choose a quiet, distraction-free space for the interview. Ensure there’s good lighting and a neutral background.
3. Be Punctual: Join the online meeting on time. Make sure you’re ready 10 minutes before the scheduled time to show seriousness.
4. Prepare Answers: Practice introducing yourself and answering basic technical questions. Be concise and to the point—no rambling.
5. Look Professional: Dress as if you were attending an in-person interview. Grooming and attire matter even in a virtual setup. Don’t appear as if you just woke-up and even without having taken a bath, started the interview.

Pro Tips to clear this round:

1. 13 Mistakes to Avoid for a Successful Online Interview

Round 2: Aptitude Test

This round tests your reasoning skills through:

• 25 questions, 1 mark each
• A 30-minute online test

Scoring at least 20/25 is necessary to advance, and the questions are designed to be challenging.

How to Prepare:

1. Brush Up on Aptitude Topics: Review common aptitude topics like logical reasoning, quantitative aptitude, and verbal ability. Practice using online mock tests.
2. Time Management: Practice answering questions quickly. You will have 30 minutes to answer 25 questions, so managing time is key.
3. Use Resources: Refer to aptitude test prep books or platforms like IndiaBIX or Testbook for practice questions.

Sample Questions:

1. 10 Aptitude Questions You’ll Face in Interviews at Proficed

Round 3: Technical Questions

This round involves:

• 15-20 technical questions
• A time limit of 30 minutes

Candidates must satisfactorily answer at least 80% of the questions. If more than four answers are unsatisfactory, the interview is stopped. The questions are tough, so thorough preparation is key.

How to Prepare:

1. Review Core Concepts: Go through the fundamentals of your technical field. For IT positions, this could include data structures, algorithms, databases, and programming languages.
2. Prepare for Tough Questions: Expect challenging questions designed to test your problem-solving skills. Consider reviewing sample technical interview questions on platforms like LeetCode, HackerRank, or GeeksforGeeks.
3. Understand Your Resume: Be prepared to answer technical questions based on projects or technologies mentioned in your resume.

Sample Questions:

1. Technical Interview Q&A

Round 4: Practical Test

Candidates are given:

• A project or assignment relevant to the role
• 1 hour to complete the task
• Evaluation by a technical expert

The task must meet at least 80% satisfaction in terms of quality and completeness. Like other rounds, this one is designed to test a candidate's ability to handle real-world tasks.

How to Prepare:

1. Review Past Projects: Go over the projects or tasks you’ve completed that are relevant to the job role. Focus on explaining your approach and thought process.
2. Practice Assignments: Brush up on the skills that will be tested (coding, design, etc.). Set a timer and try completing similar tasks in one hour.
3. Be Efficient: The task needs to be completed with at least 80% satisfaction, so focus on completing the core parts of the assignment within the time limit.

Round 5: Final Interview

This round is conducted by the CEO/Director and consists of:

• 3 to 5 questions, typically easier in nature

How to Prepare:

1. Be Confident: This is your chance to ask the CEO/Director questions. Since the questions in this round are relatively easier, focus on clear and confident communication.

Once these rounds are complete, an offer is extended to successful candidates. Upon acceptance, they are officially hired.

Rounds 2, 3, and 4 are usually conducted on the same day after clearing Round 1, with the Final Interview (Round 5) taking place the following day.

Best of luck!