The interview process was long, lasting over 5+ weeks. It consisted of written tasks, phone interviews, video interviews and role play.
Most of the interviewers were very friendly and lovely to speak with. Unfortunately one HR interviewer seemed way more concerned with the ‘cultural’ fit than my skills or experience. She also proceeded to have a personal conversation with the other interviewer at several points which was both awkward and unprofessional. I agree that workplace culture is important but it shouldn’t be the only focus.
It felt like they had decided weeks ago but were trying to stall and drag it out until they secured their first choices. In the current work climate the company could afford to be more considerate of people’s time. Not many people can afford to waste weeks and months on a company that is not willing to give them a chance.
They clearly wanted someone with specific past experience/skills and they should have been more transparent about that from the beginning in the job posting. Salary transparency would also have been helpful as there was no indication of a salary range throughout the process.