Inside Levi9: Crafting a Candidate-Centric Interview Process
At Joberty, we believe in showcasing companies that lead in candidate experience and interview transparency. Based on the positive reviews Levi9 has received on the Joberty platform, we wanted to dive deeper and understand how they ensure candidates feel valued and supported.
Through a detailed discussion with Filip Stanišić, Java Software Architect & Engineering Lead, and Tamara Stanojkovic, Talent Recruiter, we explored the structure, purpose, and outcomes of Levi9’s interview stages, from initial application to final feedback. Here’s a deep dive into how Levi9’s hiring practices set a new standard for tech industry recruitment.
From Application to Decision: A Transparent Journey
Levi9’s candidate journey is built around clarity and support, beginning right from the application stage. Tamara described the steps in this thoughtful progression.
Tamara: "Once a candidate applies, our recruiter carefully reviews their resume. If it meets the basic requirements, we promptly schedule an HR interview, where we focus on mutual introductions. We’re keen to confirm that the candidate possesses the necessary skills, aligns with our culture, and has the potential for growth—qualities we consider essential for every position."
Levi9's structured, yet adaptable approach doesn’t stop at the HR interview. After this initial interaction, candidates move to a technical interview where they can showcase their skills. According to Tamara, a key differentiator in Levi9’s process is flexibility. For junior roles, candidates may be given a technical test before moving to the interview stage to streamline assessments. On the other hand, for senior positions, Levi9 adds layers of evaluation, like an interview with a Delivery Center Director, to ensure alignment with broader company goals.
In each instance, the team emphasizes a quick and clear feedback loop, striving for efficiency without compromising depth. Their openness to feedback also reflects their commitment to continuous improvement—a quality appreciated by candidates and endorsed by the positive reviews on Joberty.
Building a Relaxed and Effective Technical Interview
For Levi9, the technical interview isn’t just a test; it’s a chance to understand the candidate’s problem-solving approach and potential fit within the team. As Filip explained, setting the right tone is essential.
Filip: “Our goal is to make candidates feel comfortable, especially those early in their careers who might be nervous. We often start with a casual conversation or topics of personal interest, like hobbies mentioned on their resume. This breaks the ice and helps candidates engage more openly."
Filip’s approach shows their dedication to creating an atmosphere where candidates feel encouraged rather than pressured. This emphasis on comfort is especially valuable for junior candidates, who may lack extensive interview experience. By putting them at ease, Levi9 ensures a fairer assessment, enabling candidates to demonstrate their potential more effectively.
Ensuring Objectivity and Depth in Technical Assessments
Levi9’s technical evaluations go beyond simple Q&A formats. Rather than presenting hypothetical questions, the interview often involves a detailed discussion about projects the candidate has worked on. This allows candidates to showcase hands-on experience, whether from prior jobs or academic projects.
Filip: “We evaluate technical skills through discussions about past projects. If the candidate is a junior, we consider university projects. We’re looking for them to explain their contributions and choices confidently. To maintain objectivity, we always have two technical interviewers, ensuring a well-rounded perspective.”
This two-interviewer model brings a balance of insights and minimizes bias, a critical component of any robust hiring process. By involving team members with diverse backgrounds, Levi9 enhances the fairness and accuracy of each assessment, ensuring candidates are reviewed on their merits.
Thoughtful Candidate Experience and Communication
Throughout the selection journey, Levi9 places a premium on communication. Timely updates are given at each stage, and candidates are kept informed of the next steps - a practice that sets them apart and aligns with the highest standards in candidate experience.
Tamara: “Regardless of the outcome, we make sure every candidate receives feedback. We’re also careful to keep candidates comfortable during interviews. We avoid putting them in uncomfortable situations and ask questions related to their resume, guiding them when necessary. Our goal is to make the interview process feel collaborative.”
This collaborative spirit speaks to their culture, one that respects candidates’ time and effort. Providing clear, constructive feedback isn’t just good practice; it’s essential to Levi9’s commitment to treating candidates as partners, even if they’re not selected.
Collaborative Approach to Selection
Finding the right candidate requires close collaboration between Levi9’s recruitment and technical teams. From the job ad stage to final hiring decisions, the process is one of open communication and shared goals.
Tamara: “Our recruiters and technical teams are in constant communication. It’s vital that a candidate is assessed as suitable by both our recruiter and hiring manager. This alignment helps us reach better hiring decisions and reinforces our dedication to finding the right fit.”
Hiring is a team effort - a message that’s echoed in the feedback shared by candidates on Joberty. This cross-functional approach doesn’t just improve selection quality; it also reflects Levi9’s collaborative ethos, giving candidates a firsthand look at the teamwork and mutual respect that define the company’s culture.
Advice for Aspiring Levi9 Candidates
As we concluded our discussion, Filip offered practical advice for candidates preparing for a technical interview at Levi9.
Filip: “Don't shy away from discussing the projects you've worked on, and be sure to leave out anything you can't confidently explain. For those starting out, consider creating a personal project, like a website or an app, and publish it on GitHub. It’s a great way to learn something new and serves as an excellent conversation starter during technical interviews, showing us that you take initiative.”
This advice encapsulates Levi9’s values: be authentic, be prepared, and show a passion for learning and problem-solving.
By focusing on clear communication, adaptability, and thorough technical assessments, Levi9 offers candidates more than just an interview - it provides an introduction to a culture of growth and respect. If you’re interested in learning more about top companies for candidate experience, check out additional company reviews on Joberty and explore our tips for acing your next tech interview.
