
From Recruiter to Hiring Manager: Who’s Involved in Your Citizens Interview Journey
At Citizens, we believe that every step of the hiring process is a chance for you to shine — and to get to know us better, too. As you move through the interview journey, you’ll interact with several colleagues, each playing a unique role in building our team. No matter where you may interview, many employers have similar roles and responsibilities. Here’s a quick guide to who you might meet and how to make the most of each interaction.
1. Recruiting Coordinator (or Recruiting Administrator)
Their role: The organizing force behind the scenes. They schedule interviews, send calendar invites, and ensure everything runs smoothly.
đź“… Tips to interact:
- Be prompt and courteous in your email replies.
- Double-check your availability before confirming times.
- If you need to reschedule, let them know as early as possible — they’re here to help!
- Confirm details clearly: Restate the date, time, and format (e.g., Microsoft Teams, in-person) when confirming interviews.
- Ask logistical questions: If you’re unsure about parking, building access, or video call links, don’t hesitate to ask.
2. Talent Sourcer
Their role: The talent scout. Sourcers search for potential candidates and often reach out via LinkedIn or email to gauge your interest in a role.
🔍Tips to interact:
- Respond thoughtfully, even if you’re not currently looking — you never know what opportunities may arise.
- Ask questions about the role or team to show your curiosity and engagement.
- Be open-minded: Even if the role isn’t a perfect fit, express interest in staying in touch for future opportunities.
- Update your LinkedIn: Sourcers can find candidates through LinkedIn or Indeed, so keep your profile current and keyword-rich.
3. Recruiter
Their role: Your main point of contact throughout the hiring process. They guide you through each step, from initial screening to offer stage. They assess your skills, behaviors, motivators and achievements, while learning about your career aspirations and interests. Some roles might bypass a screening with a recruiter, and include an assessment or video interview in its place. If that's the case, you may move directly on to a hiring manager.
🤝Tips to interact:
- Be honest about your goals, timeline, and other opportunities you’re considering.
- Ask about the interview process, team culture, and next steps — they’re your advocate and resource.
- Ask about the company culture: Recruiters can offer insights into team dynamics, values, and what makes someone successful at Citizens.
- Be transparent: If you’re interviewing elsewhere or have a deadline, let them know — it helps them advocate for you internally.
4. Hiring Manager
Their role: The person who would be your future manager. They assess your skills, behaviors, motivators and achievements.
Tips to interact:
- Come prepared with examples of your work and thoughtful questions about the role.
- Show how your experience aligns with their team’s goals and challenges.
- Be yourself — they’re evaluating how you’d fit into the team dynamic.
- Research their background: A quick LinkedIn search can help you tailor your questions and build rapport.
- Showcase impact: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to describe your achievements clearly and concisely.
5. Peers of the Hiring Manager (Colleagues or Cross-Functional Partners)
Their role: Colleagues who may work closely with you. They help assess team fit, collaboration style, and technical or functional skills.
Tips to interact:
- Treat these conversations as two-way streets — ask about their experiences, team culture, and what success looks like.
- Be respectful and authentic. These peers often have a strong voice in the hiring decision.
- Be collaborative: Highlight how you work with others, solve problems, and contribute to team success.
- Ask about their experience: Questions like “What do you enjoy most about working here?” can spark meaningful conversation.
✉️ After the Interview
- Send a thank-you: A short, personalized email to each person you met goes a long way. Mention something specific you discussed to make it memorable.
- Follow up respectfully: If you haven’t heard back within the timeline given, it’s okay to send a polite follow-up to your recruiter.
Every interaction is a chance to learn more about Citizens and to showcase your strengths. Be professional, curious, and communicative. And remember — we’re just as excited to meet you as you are to meet us!