Excessive Interviewing?

[eljefe-speaks]

I am applying for a job internally within my employer. It is a single pay grade above my current level and it is not for some lofty management position, not even close. I have already completed 3 total hours of phone interviews with 4 people. They have now scheduled an additional 3 hours of face to face interviews with 4 additional people. Is this mind-blowingly excessive (per my opinion) or about par? Anyone ever heard of this level of interviewing for an internal transfer?

[Miss Piggy]

Yes, and yes. It's mind-blowingly excessive AND it's par. A friend of mine just went through the same process for an internal transfer.

[jamesbond007]

Sounds normal to me. If anything, look at the bright side. You get a chance to see the culture first hand by talking to so many people. Even if you didn't make it, maybe you can establish a relationship with at least one of them for a future reference.

[eljefe-speaks]

Good feedback you two, thanks. I will stop bellyaching about it.

[MsSindy]

Seems a bit excessive based on my experience.  Usually, I interview with the hiring manager and possibly a peer of his/her's.  I would take it as a sign on how they make decisions - meaning everyone has to be involved, everyone has to have buy-in, etc. - decisions are made by groups.  This may or may not work for your style. 

[Axecleaver]

It's excessive and fairly common.

You see this behavior in inefficient "rule by committee" type orgs, which is the most common type in large businesses today. If you don't work out, no one wants to be the guy who advocated for you. So they spread the responsibility around to as many people as humanly possible. That way when you fail, they can point to 20 other people who thought you were a good risk. Total avoidance of responsibility.

[TexasRunner]

My MIL was recently hired on at a fast food place.  They required SEVEN interviews.  Yes, its excessive.  Yes, its common.  I don't think it is nearly as common with 'smaller' companies but large corporations make you jump through some extensive hoops.  Good luck.

[Goldielocks]

If you are being paid for your time, don't worry about it.   I had a few companies interview me like that.  The otherway is that you have "team" interview which are quite intimidating.

[gooki]

The three hours of phone interviews is excessive. The three hours of in person interviews is at the higher end of normal.