I joined Irembo as a Product Manager on June 17, 2023. When I was shortlisted for the position, I was unsure what the hiring process would entail. I scoured the internet but couldn’t find much information. So, I’m sharing my experience here to help future applicants navigate the process. My journey took around 60 days, though the company is now working to streamline it down to 40 days.
The Process:
- Application: I had initially shared my resume with HR. Via the careers page, they encourage applicants to submit resumes even if specific positions aren’t open. When the Product Manager role was posted, I officially applied, which helped me stay on HR’s radar.
- Shortlisting: A few days later, I received an email congratulating me on being shortlisted and informing me about the next steps. It was a great feeling and gave me the boost to prepare for what was ahead.
- Phone Screening: I had a brief call with the hiring manager to discuss my background and previous career achievements. The conversation was light and focused on getting to know me as a person rather than diving into technical details.
- Technical Test: Following the phone screen, I was given a technical test to complete within two weeks. It involved suggesting improvements to a communication app, creating wireframes, and outlining an implementation roadmap. Additionally, I recorded a video discussing a product I admire and why.
- Technical Interview: I passed the test and was invited to a technical interview at Irembo’s offices in Kigali. Arriving early, I was warmly welcomed by the office manager. During the interview, I met with a Senior Product Manager and a Senior Customer Experience Associate. We discussed prioritization strategies, a citizen-centric approach (since I was being considered for IremboGov), and other topics. They even gave me a chance to ask questions of my own.
- Culture Fit Interview: Later that day, I met with the People & Culture Business Partner to discuss culture fit. The conversation focused on how I align with Irembo’s values—working with passion, delighting users, and more.
- Offer Acceptance: About two weeks later, I received a call from the People & Culture Business Partner with the exciting news that I was selected for the role. After discussing the offer and salary details, it was also sent on email and I accepted via email.
Onboarding
My first day at Irembo was July 17, 2023. It began with breakfast alongside my buddy—an existing team member matched with new hires to help us feel at home. My buddy showed me around, shared the Wi-Fi password, and offered valuable guidance.
The onboarding process spanned about a month. During the first two weeks, each department presented what they do and how their work contributes to Irembo’s goals. We heard from P&C, CX, Legal, the Call Center, Product, Finance, Security, and Engineering.
In the second two weeks, I was embedded in my own department, Product & Engineering (P&E). I spent time understanding how our team collaborates across departments and developing empathy for our users. I met with almost every director to learn how they work with Product, and I also visited users—citizens, agents, and officers—to understand their needs and challenges with the product.
Meet the CEO: Our cohort had a special session with the CEO, who shared the company’s vision and took questions ranging from his career path to specific goals for Irembo.
Camp Blue: A highlight of onboarding was “Camp Blue,” a three-day program led by an external coaching company. It was an opportunity for new hires to dive deep into Irembo’s values, reflect on career growth, and learn how our individual contributions impact the company.
Now, 1 year and 4 months in, I’m grateful for the journey and proud to be part of Irembo’s mission. Here’s to more impact ahead!