Geoff CuddToptal is a global remote company that doesn’t accept just anyone who applies. In fact, they only accept 3% of applications. To put it quite simply, you have a better chance of getting into Harvard – which has an acceptance rate of 5% – versus Toptal.
At DDIY, we have researched Toptal’s interview and screening process to help you get accepted to the platform.
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TopTal – Top 3%
Toptal distinguishes itself from other marketplaces by being really selective as to who they allow on its platform. That means that only 3% of applicants are invited to be a part of the company. This means that you are also compensated at a higher rate than other similar remote companies.
Toptal measures applications in three areas:
- Expertise – How well-versed are you in the area where you are applying? For instance, if you are a coder, then you have to demonstrate that you understand some of the more complex coding languages that will be in demand for high-paying assignments.
- Professionalism – Top applicants must be able to conduct themselves at the highest level when it comes to meeting deadlines and handling all aspects of an assignment.
- Communication Skills – Applicants will need to demonstrate that they can communicate clearly and quickly throughout all stages of a project.
How Long Does the Screening Process Take?
The entire screening process will take anywhere between two and five weeks to complete. The exact screening process time will depend on a couple of factors, including the type of area of expertise you are in and the time of the year. During Toptal’s busy season, the screening process will naturally take longer.
To learn more about the platform, read our Toptal review.
TopTal Screening Process – What to Expect
If you want to master the screening process, then you should know what Toptal is looking for in its applicants. Here, we’ll take a more in-depth look at their screening process.
Introductory Screening Process
During the introductory screening process, the screening team is going to get to know you as a person and see if you are a right fit for their company.
Language and Personality
During the language and personality part of the interview, the company will assess if you have the right temperament to handle the various workloads assigned to you. Also, the company will assess if you will be able to effectively communicate with yourself as well as the client.
Only about 26% of the total applicants will be able to pass the Language and Personality section of the interview.
In-Depth Skill Review
During this part of the review, you will be assessed to see if you understand the specific skill that will be required to complete your assignments.
Codility Test
As the name implies, the cordiality test will test your ability to under coding in your specific specialty. Only about 7% of the applicants will pass this part of the interview.
Live Screening Review
During this part of the interview, the applicant will be questioned by an expert screener. This part of the interview will test the applicant’s ability to think on their feet.
Technical Interview
During the technical interview, the applicant will be asked to perform specific live exercises, answer questions, and have their problem-solving ability gauged by the screener. Only about 3.6% of applicants pass this part of the interview.
Sample Test Projects
After passing the first three parts of the interview process, the applicant will be given a test project to see if they can handle the type of work available at Toptal. An applicant will typically have between one to three weeks to complete the test project.
Only about 3.2% of applicants are able to pass the sample test project.
What Happens After I Get Accepted?
When you are accepted into the Toptal community, you will have the opportunity to work on freelance projects that are available from the company.
Additionally, you will be able to attend in-person and virtual events.
What Are My Options If I Don’t Pass the Toptal Screening Process?
If you do not pass the first screening, you will have the opportunity to retake the screening.
However, you will have to wait for a certain period of time before you are able to take a second screening.
Alternatively, you can choose another freelance platform. Read how TopTal compares to UpWork and UpStack.
Potential Interview Questions for TopTal
The following are interview questions submitted by the test proper site Prepfully.com. Below are the five top questions that were asked by previous applicants.
- Tell me about a time when you had to analyze many data points. What insight did you draw?
- Talk about a conflict that you had with your manager.
- Tell me of a time when you had a lot of competing priorities and how you coped with them.
- Give an overview of your work experience in one minute
- Tell me about a time you were proved wrong
FAQs
How long does the screening process take?
The entire screening process will take anywhere from four to six weeks to complete. That includes the 1 to 3 weeks that you will work on a sample test project.
What if I need special accommodations to complete my screening due to disability?
If you have a disability, Toptal will make special arrangements to ensure that you can take the interview without experiencing any disadvantage.
How do I know if I’m experienced enough to join the Toptal network?
Typical applicants will have anywhere between two to three years of experience in their skill specialty.
Claire Fountain
Rashida Beal
