Had a referral from a friend of a friend. Basically spoke to the hiring supervisor before even applying. Filled out the forms online, and was contacted by HR for an interview about a week or so later. Had the interview today. It was really nice experience, even though I nervous I don't think it showed. Essentially even before the interview, another person asked about my security clearance and I believe she was my ice breaker as we got to chatting about a discrepancy with my previous employer. Through the chat the interviewer got to see me in a personable office setting with his colleagues. This showed my initiative and knowledge in the matter at hand; which probably really helped me before the interview even started.