What to expect in the PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL GROUP INC interview process

Based on information found online regarding Principal Financial Group, the hiring process relies heavily on a structured interviewing approach. Candidates can apply through the official career portal, though the applicant tracking system notoriously limits applicants to a single resume upload for all roles, meaning any update will impact all current and future applications.

The evaluation process typically begins with a recruiter review and an initial human resources interview, which may be conducted as a traditional phone call or via an on-demand pre-recorded interview using audio or video technology. Depending on the role, candidates may also be required to complete assessments evaluating leadership, general employability, or coding skills. The main interview phase utilizes a structured format focused on core job competencies and behavioral questions, with specific employee feedback highlighting an interview structure featuring roughly eight behavioral questions where utilizing the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method is emphasized.

Regarding workplace logistics and environment, job postings explicitly indicate work arrangements, which span in-office, fully remote (based on proximity to specific office locations), or hybrid formats—defined as blending at least three office days in a typical workweek. Pre-employment screening mandates a background check managed via Business Information Group upon a contingent job offer, though drug tests are not required. Additionally, the company emphasizes formal inclusion initiatives, hosting open employee resource groups (ERGs) and maintaining recognition from various benchmarks evaluating practices for advancing women and diverse managers, LGBTQ+ equality, and military-friendly hiring.