Since the first interview with the client will be non-technical, this stage should focus on assessing soft skills, problem-solving mindset, and cultural alignment, rather than deep technical evaluation.
✅ Ensure candidates understand the company & role – They should articulate why they’re excited about the opportunity.
✅ Test communication & storytelling – Can they explain their experience, impact, and approach clearly?
✅ Assess culture fit & mindset – Do they align with Shape Up principles and fast-moving startup environments?
✅ Gauge problem-solving approach – Do they think critically and make tradeoffs?
✅ Identify & mitigate risks before they speak to the client – Ensure they don’t fail due to poor preparation.
Since you always share an Interview Prep Pack, this ensures:
| Section | What to Include? | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Company Overview | 🔹 Mission & vision 🔹 Funding stage & team size 🔹 Problem they solve | Ensures candidate understands why the company exists. |
| Role Overview | 🔹 What the company is looking for 🔹 Key responsibilities 🔹 What success looks like | Helps the candidate tailor responses effectively. |
| First Interview Structure | 🔹 Who they will be speaking with (name, role, LinkedIn) 🔹 Format (behavioral, culture fit, problem-solving) 🔹 Expected duration | Prepares the candidate for what’s ahead. |
| Common Questions They May Ask | 🔹 Sample behavioral questions 🔹 Questions about motivation & culture fit 🔹 Tradeoff/mindset-based questions | Helps candidates rehearse strong responses. |
| Key Talking Points | 🔹 What the company is excited about 🔹 What makes a successful candidate 🔹 How they evaluate culture fit | Helps candidates align responses to what the company values. |
| How to Prepare | 🔹 Tips on storytelling 🔹 Reminders on clear, concise communication 🔹 Strong questions they can ask | Ensures candidates leave a strong impression. |
💡 Include a short Loom video explaining the role, company, and interview format for better retention.
📌 Purpose: