I was recommended by a friend and filled out a paper application. I worked for the company for over 1 year when I was asked if my partially completed online application was an indicator I was still interested in the position. I had to explain that I had already been working for the company for a year but had gone over 2 months without contact with management and had been making my own schedule.
I believe my second, informal, interview was more characteristic of what first-time employees can expect and was cordial and pleasant.