I first connected with faculty in the department in which I wanted a position. What was available at the time was an advertised position that I qualified for and the faculty member put me in touch with the person needing a research associate. I sent my CV and we emailed back and forth informally as the employer checked on my references (mutual acquaintances). I was invited out to interview in-person for two days. They hosted the visit and did an excellent job of hosting by making me feel welcome, taking care of all travel and expenses, made sure I was taken out to meals with other faculty, staff, and students, and included me in standing meetings all to get a feel of the environment. About a week later, I was offered the position and if I tentatively agreed to the arrangements then they would start the paperwork. I believe the interview process was less about my abilities (since my CV, references, and job talk spoke to that) but was more about gauging my work style and how well I fit in with the culture there.