Observation as part of job “interview” process?

mmct21: Observation as part of job “interview” process?
I was trying to get a job at a certain corporation. I had 2 interviews with different people. Then I was asked to come in for a few hours and observe other people on the job. A week later I was asked to come in for a second time to come in for a few hours and observe – I also did some of the work – sort of a training session without pay. Is this common and if they ask again should I say OK or say that I believe I have observed enough and feel confident about the job and they should make their decision?

Answers and Views:

Answer by cathysue785
I have never heard of that. It would make sense to hire you and then have you observe while your work. So they aren’t wasint yours or their time.

Answer by ad_sessionrd
For as long as you consented to it, that would be fine and reasonable. In that way you and your potential employer can asses if you are fit for the job and can also and mingled with other members of orgsnization.

Answer by Robert H
It’s not common, but there’s a way to “work it”.

Always follow up with a thank you letter with
the decision maker. Let that person know
your experience and how it fits in.

Of course, you need to make a decision.
Ask them to put their offer together and we’ll
talk about it in detail.

Are you worn out, yet?

Answer by MKai
I work in high tech and having been an interveiwer and an interviewee, if we wanted to know about a person’s competence, a simple written test or hands-on demonstration would suffice. Based on your description, these observation sessions are a little fishy in my opinion. I personally have never heard of such a practice being done during the interview process.

It definitely seems like you’re left to your own imagination for the reason behind these sessions, which is never a good thing for a potential employer to be doing. I would ask them politely what the purpose is for these observation sessions and then ask when they’re planning to make a decision on hiring for the position. If they ask why you’re asking, then you can tell them that you are also interviewing at other companies and need to know to make a more-informed decision. If they ask who you’re interviewing with, it is perfectly within etiquitte to say you would rather keep that information to yourself.

If they’re honest, they’ll realize they may have done a poor job communicating things to you and clarify. Otherwise, if they dance around the question, then you know something is not right and they very well could be trying to milk you for free labor.

Good luck in your search!