HR Screening: A standard introductory conversation to assess fit.
Team Lead Technical Chat: A brief discussion focusing on my background and experience, ensuring alignment with the role’s technical needs.
In-Depth Technical Interview: A thorough session with team members covering software engineering skills, specific project examples, and detailed problem-solving discussions, focusing on evaluation methodologies.
The Fourth Round – A Curious Finale
The final “cultural fit” session with a VP was, to put it mildly, puzzling. After being assured that I’d essentially passed the rigorous technical rounds, this stage felt like an afterthought. The conversation meandered from my background to casual inquiries about whether I have done my research on Droneshield’s developments (which was already questioned in rounds 2 and 3), yet it soon became clear that my CV hadn’t been given the attention it deserved.
Rather than engaging in a balanced dialogue about mutual expectations and contributions, the exchange took on a condescending tone—suggesting I needed to “learn” from engineers at a “higher level.” For a role that purports to seek senior talent, it seems odd to be treated as if my experience were merely a stepping stone toward catching up. To add insult to injury, the call ended abruptly, with the interviewer hanging up without a proper goodbye. For a role that values senior expertise, such behavior is hardly reflective of a respectful or professional culture. I myself work in my company as an interviewer, and these are exactly the traits that I tell newbie interviewers to be cautious of. I always tell them to talk supportively, read the CV and write questions to ask before the interview, and end with a proper closing. I guess these basics are lacking with one - if not some - 'high level' engineer in Droneshield.
Overall, while the first three rounds were impressive, the final encounter left me questioning the company’s commitment to genuine engagement and mutual respect.