How many interviews for an interim role?

[Zhougzhoug]

6 month temporary role which the organisation want to start yesterday ASAP but January at latest. Had a 30 minute "informal chat" with the hiring manager which was basically a job interview, although quite a simple one. No test or anything. It's through an agency.

Everyone, including the agency is being vague about what the "next steps" will be and I don't know why.

Have I been interviewed yet - did that 30 minute chat count as an interview? Or am I hoping for a real interview to be the outcome? Has anyone had anything like this and how did it work for you?

It totally depends on the hiring organisation and what they want to do (or need to do for internal processes).

All the 30 min informal chat interviews I've had have been a pre-screen, followed by a formal competency based interview. These then sometimes go to third interview.

Recently went through recruitment for an 8 month maternity leave cover job, lady already on leave so role was definitely needed.

First interview had a test so there for an hour.
Didn’t see the second interview as on the agenda but it was and what a save.

Second interview just under a week later. Nearly hour and a half sit and see.
(wasn’t sure about job from there on in so didn’t have the heart to be chasing)

Very kind reject email received two weeks on from first interview date attended. They must have seen more than one person back for a second interview. Maybe if offered a second interview again in future I might be inclined to question how many going back.

Thanks all. @Ladymuck2022 that is a lot for a mat cover! I wasn't sure how different it would be with an interim.

This is a temp role because they're restructuring.

Odd one seniority rise. Sort of middle management in terms of seniority/pay/responsibility but it doesn't actually have any direct reports. Oddly they asked me quite a bit about management experience (which I have plenty of)

Yes pretty niche specialist. First contact with the agency but they've been very responsive. I had a pre-screen phone interview with them too, and the MD, before I met the client.

I know I can wait and see, I'm just trying not to be too pushy or annoy the agency. I don't usually go for jobs this way so intrigued to see how others find it.

Good to know!

So many employers treat potential employees like shit - multi stage tests and interviews - keep them waiting for the next stage

@TheCheeryLeader I did, thank you! Interview on the 6th and told "they'll be looking to make a decision quickly and there will be no further rounds after that".