I went through the Notion recruiter screen twice across two separate application cycles (different roles, different years). Going to be honest: I underestimated it the first time and it showed.
The Notion recruiter screen is not a five-minute scheduling call. It's a real 30-45 minute conversation and they're evaluating you throughout.
Format. Usually a video call with an internal recruiter. They open with a brief intro about the role and team, then it's your turn for most of the conversation.
What they asked me: Walk me through your background and what you're working on currently. Why Notion specifically? (Not "why are you looking," but specifically Notion.) What do you use Notion for personally or professionally? (I cannot stress this enough: they ask this almost every time. Have a real answer.) What's attracting you to this size of company right now? (Notion is still under 1,000 people as of early 2026.) Where are you in your search? Are there other processes you're in? What are your comp expectations?
That last one came up early. Be ready with a real number or range. They use this to screen alignment before burning everyone's time.
The Notion product question is not optional prep. If you haven't thought carefully about what you actually like or find frustrating about Notion as a product, you'll stumble. They don't want "I love the flexibility." They want something specific. I talked about how I use Notion to manage async work across time zones (I'm UK-based, working with US teams) and what frictions I'd fix. That sparked a real conversation.
Tip for non-US applicants. I asked directly about remote-hiring for my location. They were upfront about which roles are open to international hiring and which require US presence. Don't wait until the final round to ask this.