The hiring process at Cisco takes an average of 46 days when considering 2 user submitted interviews across all job titles. Candidates applying for CSM had the quickest hiring process (on average 1 day), whereas Intern Field Sales roles had the slowest hiring process (on average 90 days).
had 2 rounds with the competitive intelligence team - one who is the hiring manager, 2nd round with a guy who would end up being my peer.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
this 2nd guy asked a very silly question - how many iphones fit into a swimming pool? it has no relevance for the job profile. also he was 15 minutes late to take the interview. and finished the interview in 15 min. right from start it showed his disinterest in talking to me. i think its because he was an indian & talking to me (another indian) and had major attitude problem.
I applied through a recruiter. The process took 2 weeks. I interviewed at Cisco (San Jose, CA) in Jan 2008
Interview
Look online at job opening - respond to those - Cisco has thorough process - they also selectively work with outside recruiters - work with those as well - once you get initial interest, you will have 4 - 6+ interviews. You will need to be high energy, very polished and very well prepared. Cisco is for grown-ups and you'll have to demonstrate clearly how you will drive business results.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
This really depends on what position exactly you apply for. Be prepared for anything. Know your stuff. e.g. What would be the 3 - 5 key ways that Cisco differentiates from Microsoft in the Collaboration Space.
I applied through an employee referral. The process took 1+ week. I interviewed at Cisco
Interview
4 different interviews from peer level to manager to Sr Mgr
Questions were not technically difficult. More focus on people skills and interest in the position.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
My most difficult questions had to do with Unified Communications, Call Manager, because at the time I was a very R&S/Security focused engineer. However I am CCIE certified and I believe this helps a lot as there is less questions of aptitude and more of an attempt to see what kind of adaptive skills and capabilities you have.