I ran a poll on LinkedIn asking how many interviews is overkill. Over 50% believe that more than 3 interviews are too many, even for high level positions.
The poll
Regardless of the level, more than ___ interviews is too many:
- 3: 55%
- 4: 32%
- 5: 10%
- 6: 3%
Why it matters
The best candidates usually have options. Every extra round, every week of silence and every “we’ll circle back” gives a great person time to say yes to someone else.
Today many companies add video screens and AI assessments on top of the usual rounds, so the process can stretch even longer without anyone noticing. A few simple moves help:
- Decide who truly needs to meet the candidate before you start.
- Combine interviews into one day or one video block when you can.
- Give feedback within a day or two, and tell candidates the timeline up front.
Hire with care, but hire with speed. The great ones don’t wait long.
Let’s connect on LinkedIn if we are not already. I would love to hear how many interviews you think is too many.
Hiring? Reach the recruiters at Joseph Michaels International at info@josephmichaels.com or visit josephmichaels.com.
“Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work.” ~ Steve Jobs