What to Expect in Our Recruitment Process

Applying for a new job can be exciting, but it can also feel uncertain. At Family Service Toronto (FST), we believe in being transparent about our hiring process so you know what to expect every step of the way. Our goal is to create a fair, respectful, and inclusive experience for every candidate.

Step 1: Application Review

Once you submit your resume and application, our Human Resources team will carefully review your qualifications and experience against the requirements of the position.

We want you to know that every application is reviewed by a real person. We do not use artificial intelligence (AI) to screen resumes. Our HR team conducts all screening to help ensure a thoughtful, equitable, and inclusive recruitment process.

If your qualifications and experience align with the role, we will invite you to the next stage of the process.

Step 2: Initial Phone Screening

Selected candidates will be invited to participate in a brief phone screening with one of our HR Generalists.

This conversation is an opportunity for us to:

Learn more about your experience and interest in the role
Confirm alignment with key job requirements
Discuss salary expectations and logistics, where applicable
Identify any accommodations we can provide throughout the hiring process
Answer your initial questions about the position and Family Service Toronto

We want candidates to have the information they need to determine whether the opportunity is a good fit for them, just as we are determining whether it is a good fit for us.

Step 3: Interview

Candidates who move forward will be invited to an interview, which is typically conducted virtually.

Most interviews are attended by two members of our team, and occasionally three. We aim to keep interview panels small to create a comfortable and conversational experience.

During the interview, you can expect:

Approximately 10–15 questions
Primarily behavioural-based questions focused on your experience
Opportunities to share examples of your work, skills, and approach
Time at the end to ask questions about the role, team, and organization

To support accessibility and equitable hiring practices, we are happy to provide interview questions in advance or share them through the virtual meeting chat during the interview.

At the conclusion of the interview, we will explain the next steps and timelines.

Communication Throughout the Process

We know waiting to hear back after an interview can be stressful.

You can expect to hear from us within two weeks of your interview—often sooner. If there are delays, we will keep you informed.

We believe respectful communication is part of a positive candidate experience, which means we will never “ghost” candidates who have participated in our interview process.

Step 4: Second Interview (When Required)

Some positions may require a second interview.

If this is the case, we will let you know as early as possible and provide information about what to expect so you have time to prepare.

Second interviews may be conducted virtually or in person at one of our locations, including our Church Street or Sterling Road offices.

Depending on the role, a second interview may include:

Additional interview questions
A discussion with other members of the team
A presentation or work-related exercise

For leadership and management roles, for example, candidates may be asked to prepare a brief presentation outlining their priorities or approach during their first 90 days in the position.

Step 5: References

If you are the successful candidate, we will request three professional references.

Our team typically contacts references within one week. If we experience any challenges reaching your references, we will connect with you directly to discuss next steps.

Step 6: Offer of Employment

Once references have been completed successfully, we will extend an offer of employment and provide you with an employment contract.

We encourage candidates to take the time they need to review the offer. Typically, we provide up to one week for review and decision-making.

Throughout this stage, our HR team is available to answer questions and provide clarification on any aspect of the offer, benefits, onboarding, or employment terms.

Contracts can be signed electronically for your convenience.

Welcome to FST

Once your contract is signed, we’ll begin preparing for your arrival. Our onboarding process is designed to help you feel welcomed, informed, and connected to your team from day one.

We appreciate the time, effort, and care that candidates invest in applying to Family Service Toronto, and we look forward to getting to know you throughout the recruitment process.