I applied to Zimmer through their website. I immediately received an automated email that stated something like the following: We have received your information for the position. Should your background meet our needs, we will be in contact with you in the near future. If you are not contacted, please accept our sincere best wishes in your search for new career opportunities. Thank you for taking the time to consider opportunities with Zimmer.
About few weeks later I received an email that said something like the following: Your interest in Zimmer as a potential employer is appreciated. The position that you applied for is no longer available. We will maintain your resume in our database in the event that a future opening matches your qualifications.
A few weeks after that I received another email that said "Thank you for your interest in the position with Zimmer. As you may know, the competition is exceptionally strong for this position. While your background has many interesting aspects, we have selected candidates who more closely match our current business need.".
About a couple months later I received a call from a Staffing Specialist who wanted to schedule a phone interview. The person told me the position was put on hold, but they were actively looking to fill it. I was scheduled to speak with the assistant manager first. After that call, the senior manager would call. I was surprised that this was not a conference call with both of them at the same time. My interview with the first person ran over. The second person called and emailed me asking where I was.
Despite this, I was scheduled for a 1:1 with both managers and several people from other departments. The schedule was revised a couple a times. Even when I arrived one of the parties was unable to meet with me.
My perception is there is some sort of disconnect between staffing and the hiring managers.