Hi All,
This thread has been a wonderful source of information for me since applying for the AHA position, so I thought I'd pay if forward a bit.
For me it was a 2 month, whirlwind process.
Hired directly through Apple, this is how it went for me.
1. Application submitted online through Apple 'employment' link at bottom of page. Applied to 3 AHA positions in different areas of the US - none of which were within 100 miles of my location. (They've dropped that requirement.)
Cover letter seems to be an important part - clear, concise and energetic! Why do you want to work for Apple, and what makes you think you'd be a good addition to the team?
2. Received a call 2 days later, very brief interview (5 minutes) where "I like your energy" was mentioned. Told what position they were seeking to fill and then offered the opportunity to have a second interview via FaceTime or Skype. Accepted and received an email with a link to set-up a time for the 2nd interview with another recruiter. Set-up a time approximately 1 week later for a FaceTime interview.
Prepared for interview by reading through this thread.
3. Had 2nd interview, which lasted approximately 30 minutes. Again "I like your energy" was mentioned. Laid back chat, but obviously still a job interview. General 'what would you do if...' scenario questions, define 'empathy' and how does it differ from sympathy. Job explained again, and asked if I could meet the requirements. Told I would hear back in 5-10 days if I was selected for a 3rd interview by a hiring manager.
4. Same day sent an email by a third Apple representative who wanted me to click through another link to set-up a 3rd interview. Did so, scheduled it for a week later.
3rd interview was to take place via FaceTime, but a snafu made it a phone call interview instead. This didn't seem to be an issue. I was told to relax, and just be myself.
The interview lasted 60 minutes, with some general 'tech' knowledge questions like 'How would you explain RAM to a non-tech person?' and 'What is a CPU?' Asked for description of current computer's specs, then when on into role playing, and problem solving. Interviewer liked that I had taken the time to familiarize myself with the Apple Support section and mentioned it when explaining how a customer might find help with their issue.
5. Three days after interview I received Hireright email for background check. Completed BGC within 24 hours, checked online to see I'd passed. Noted that it went to a specific email at Apple - not that of anyone who had interviewed me. Looked up the email online, and found it went to a bigger fish, who manages several team managers. (Saw that as a good sign.)
6. Approximately 10 days following the completion of the BGC I received an offer call. $1 more per hour than initially quoted. Accepted offer verbally, then was sent an email of the offer to digitally sign and either fax or email back to Apple. Told that I would be receiving a paperwork package via FedEx within 48 hours.
7. Received paperwork (Welcome) package via FedEx, as well as an email from the person who had been attached to the email on the background check info.
Two days later had a group paperwork session via a 1hr conference call. Essentially 'how to' fill out the paperwork, deadlines and specifics related to the team.
Get your paperwork filled out and follow directions. If you are not near an Apple Store, take note of this one thing... you can get your I9 signed (verified) by ANYONE who is not related to you. Just fill it out correctly - nothing extra - scan and email or fax it, then call them to make sure it's 'all good' before you FedEx it. It doesn't need to be notarized. *You will need to present that same ID on your first day.
You get a FedEx envelope locally, and they give you a label to print out (prepaid) to send back your stuff. Take note of the tracking link on the label to know when it arrives. You will not receive a confirmation they have it, but if it arrives - assume you're on track.
Approximately a month from that conference call, equipment arrives a few days before the first training day.
Email communications from that time forward, with 'contact with any questions' always being offered.
Phone line and Internet have to be in place before the first day, with desk and chair requirements mentioned, but not enforced immediately.
FYI...Do not open boxes of equipment until instructed to do so on the first day by your manager. Instructions on what to expect the first day are sent to you via email.
"Come to find out..."
It's a long process, but the benefits offered and the chance to be with #6 on the Fortune 500 make it worth the effort.
I applied to 3 of the AHA positions randomly (all part-time, non-student) and was offered full-time. So you never know!
The needs of the company come first, but it's during the interview process that you have the opportunity to voice your needs.
NOTE: No matter whether you get part-time or full-time, you'll need to be flexible and 'flex' to what is needed based upon product launches and/or holidays.
By the time the 3rd interview is underway, you're talking to a specific team manager who is seeking individuals for THEIR team. Connecting with them as well as being on target with your responses both seem to be important. Also being upbeat and flexible!
SO...
The town you choose to apply for... means nothing for AHA if you're a non-student.
Cover letter is important; not too long, interested, why you'd be good for the Apple team.
Be yourself in any interviews. They want people who can easily talk to other people, and explain things in a simple, empathetic way. Tech knowledge is less important than wanting to help.
Be patient. You don't get a lot of info regarding anything very fast, but when you do, they want you to respond quickly and only as directed.
Hope this helps those who are applying, interviewing and waiting for that email or call.
Best wishes to all of you, and 'thank you' to the many who have offered up tips and encouragement.
This thread is a great resource for those attempting to knock on, and open the door to Apple At Home Advisor opportunities.
