MIT Program Manager interview questions

Instead of a separate phone screen with HR, the HR rep was present on the initial interview with department members I’d be working closely with. The HR rep abruptly stopped the initial flow of the interview so they could ask their 15(!) questions. It felt robotic. I didn’t get a feel for who they were and I don’t think they were able to get a good feel for who I was either. I did appreciate that they asked about salary expectations at the close of the interview, but when I gave my expectation that was well within the range of the salary grade they posted, they balked at it. Then it was explained to me that although the salaries were lower here, there was ‘equity’ to be had. That’s great, but equity won’t pay for the three small children I currently have in daycare. Disappointing experience overall.

The first interview was about 30 minutes, the second was an hour. It was very engaging and not intimidating at all. The hiring managers were very friendly and the overall tone was colloquial and inquisitive. They wanted to learn about it. Sadly, I never heard another word from them after months, despite following up. This seems to be a very unfortunate trend when it comes to hiring nowadays. Zero courtesy or decency.