Introduction to Bar Raising
While trawling through Amazon Interview content on the web we've noticed a few perspectives on what it means to be a bar raiser at Amazon—and many didn't quite hit the mark. Not everyone discussing the topic has been in the trenches, so to speak, some have never even worked for Amazon, so we're here to offer an insider's look, driven by the Amazon leadership principle to "insist on the highest standards." Let's clear the air on bar raising.
The Real Deal on Being a Bar Raiser
First off, it's crucial to understand that bar raising isn't a paid position. It's an extra commitment you take on alongside your regular job, dedicating around 6-8 hours a week to ensure the company hires top talent. This role is fueled by the satisfaction of making a significant impact, rather than any direct compensation.
How Does One Become a Bar Raiser?
Becoming a Bar Raiser is not about applying for the role but being recognized for potential. Whether noticed by a Bar Raiser for your insightful contributions during interviews or nominated by your line manager, it's an invitation to an exclusive training program. This program varies in length, depending on your ability to navigate complex debriefs and your knack for identifying truly exceptional candidates.
Being a BRIT
You start out as Bar Raiser In Training (BRIT). You shadow other Bar Raisers doing their duties and are shadowed by other Bar Raisers as you practice a Bar Raiser's duties. You're assigned a mentor who gathers feedback from the Bar Raisers you work with on your progress. Your mentor had to present a case to a panel of Core Bar Raisers to approve your full qualification. This process can take weeks or months.
The Nitty-Gritty of Bar Raising Duties
Bar Raising blends administrative responsibilities with the core tasks of interviewing and debriefing. Working alongside recruitment coordinators, Bar Raisers ensure interview panels are not only skilled and well-trained but also diverse, reflecting Amazon's commitment to inclusivity. Despite some myths, there are no secret questions or methods exclusive to bar raisers; they focus on assessing candidates against Amazon's leadership principles, just like any other interviewer.
The Essence of Debriefing
The debrief process is where the essence of Bar Raising truly comes to light. It's a collaborative effort to determine if a candidate raises the bar, surpassing the capability of at least 50% of the current people working in the same or similar roles at the level being interviewed for. This requires a Bar Raiser to have a deep understanding of the business, ensuring they have a solid benchmark for what "raising the bar" truly means.
The listen to the evidence presented by all of the interviewers and try to get to a consensus view on the decision to hire or not. If consensus isn't possible, the Bar Raiser will make the final decision.
Conclusion: The Impact of Bar Raisers
Bar Raising at Amazon is more than just an interview process; it's about upholding the company's high standards and ensuring continuous growth and improvement. I hope this insight demystifies the role of a bar raiser and highlights the dedication behind the scenes.
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