I applied directly to First Derivatives by submitting my CV and was in contact via their HR department. I was offered a telephone interview within a matter of weeks and was told it would be quite a technical interview. Having interview3ed with financial firms before I know that they like in-depth knowledge of C/C++, STL, certain algorithms and strong maths in general. I had prepared for this. Instead I was just asked about my previous experience; nothing that they couldn't read from my CV. There were no leading questions, nothing designed to highlight any deficiencies or strong suits. They seemed keen to explore my knowledge of TCP/IP and RTP but only after I had mentioned it. The crunch point was when I asked about how much SIP messaging they did. There was a laugh in the background from one of the panel listening in as I was told "That's pretty much all we do". I found this highly irregular. Things went downhill from here. Figuring I had nothing to lose I highlighted that I didn't have the required A grade in A-level maths that HR should have picked up on, but that I was sure I could pass their programming test. I also asked for a quick turnaround time as I had other roles on. Sure enough a few days later I was turned down for the 2nd stage face to face. While I don't mind rejection based on academic criteria I find it odd to have been offered a telephone interview knowing that this should have been picked up on. I also don't appreciate panels laughing in the background given what was a genuine question (although admittedly one that could sound rather naive) If asked to apply again I would, although I'd make sure I redid my A-level maths grade and did any interviews face to face. Preferably with someone who has better interview skills and more polite company.