- Completed an online application & uploaded a resume + cover letter @ Progressive's careers website - Took an exam which was 1/3 IQ test (mostly simple mathematics word problems, timed but w/sufficient time provided) and 2/3 temperment test. - Participated in a 60-minute phone interview (approximately 1 week later) that was almost entirely comprised of STAR format questions; the interviewer (a Progressive talent recruiter) was patient and engaging, the questions were challenging; @ the conclusion of the interview, the recruiter gave me information about the job functions and starting salary; she said she wanted to move forward w/an on-site interview and set an appt for me. - Completed an extensive application for my background check (every job I've ever had? Every place I've ever lived?) and a background check that took several weeks and a half-dozen information requests w/follow up emails. - Participated in a 45-minute on-site interview (approximately 1 week later) that included another 8 STAR questions; the interviewer (a senior supervisor @ the local office) was personable and informative. @ the conclusion of the interview, he advised me that he would reach a decision after w/my recruiter's input. - I received a call from the talent recruiter (approximately 2 weeks after my on-site interview) and was informed that another candidate had be given the position. - I was offered and accepted the supervisor's feedback: he was impressed w/my problem-solving and customer service skills but was concerned that my meticulous nature would effect my processing speed. I was impressed with his insight and - although he was probably right - was disappointed that I wouldn't get the opportunity to prove him wrong. I have never prepared so hard & interviewed so well and NOT received a job offer. But the Progressive interviewing experience really was a valuable process that took my interviewing skills - particularly the STAR format element - to a higher level (as I've been able to demonstrate in subsequent interviews with other companies).