I have interviewed for two different Posse chapters now. Their process is a group interview followed by individual interviews for the strongest candidates. Both times I have been applying in hopes of relocating and they were flexible in arranging a Skype interview for the initial stages.
1. Skype Interview
2. In-person interview
For my in-person interview, I traveled on-site to meet with staff and the director. My overall impression has been that while Posse chapters are run independently, they are generally poorly managed and I have felt yanked around in both recruitment processes. The last job I applied to with them will be my last- I flew out to the location, interviewed and was given a job offer. One week later, they took the offer back and have not returned either of my emails asking for feedback or further explanation. It is one of the most unprofessional things that has ever happened to me in a recruitment process and a very disappointing display of ethics on behalf of an organization that I have been a huge fan of for years. Below are a few more details about the interview process, but I have to say that given my experience and insight into their operations, I would be wary of working for this company.
In-person interview: 3 hours long. Was not prepped for format before arrival at the office on the morning of. I met one-on-one with the director for 1 hour, then completed work tasks for 1.5 hours, then met for a round-robin of sorts with 3 staff members. The work tasks were a bit redundant but aligned with tasks for the job.
The interview process was fine, a bit long and expensive, but not out of line with other experiences in the nonprofit sector. Posse does not help with transportation or accommodations, meaning if you are from out of town, you will pocket all interview costs. This is not unheard of for nonprofits, but it is asking a lot of out candidates.
My big takeaway was disappointment from this organization. I do not understand why organizations put such a low premium on good recruitment processes. I have left this process feeling discouraged and so upset that this organization has treated me like this, as it’s the opposite of their reputation in the youth development field. After this happened, I learned that a friend had the same thing, an offer taken back, from her with Posse in San Francisco. This seems to be a systemic issue within the organization, so just be aware what you are getting yourself into.