I had already been working almost 2 years as an associate trainer on both register/line, my manager was looking for me to move up so he arranged a meeting with our district manager. It was very informal, he just chatted with me and asked me questions about myself and my life, then gave me the chance to ask him questions pertaining to the position. By the end of it was I given the position. I understand this may not happen at all locations but Panera does promote from within often and from the district manager visiting our store, he got to know what kind of worker I was. My manager just put in a good word and it went from there. I hear now that shift supervisors may have to have a brief interview/introduction in front of all the gm's at their manager meeting.