Screening This is often the first contact with a candidate. Recruiters may use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to screen resumes and sort through applicants. Interview stages The interview process can include multiple stages, such as an initial interview, a competency interview, and a final interview. Interview questions Interviewers may ask basic questions, such as "Why are you interested in this position?" and more involved questions, such as "Tell me about a time when you had to face an irate customer". Background check An employer or HR executive may conduct a background check to verify information shared by the candidate.