The interview process started on a positive note. I had multiple interviews with the same two people, which felt a bit excessive since I was essentially asked the same questions repeatedly. Overall, the conversations seemed to go well, and I left feeling optimistic about the opportunity.
Later, I was asked to interview with another team in the same department. That experience was less impressive, as the interviewers were unable to clearly answer many of my questions about the role and team.
After four interviews spread over several weeks, I was ultimately ghosted. I understand that the job market is highly competitive and that companies receive many applications, but candidates deserve basic courtesy and communication. A simple update or rejection email goes a long way.
It's worth remembering that, at some point, most hiring managers and recruiters were job seekers themselves. Treating candidates with respect and professionalism should be a fundamental part of the hiring process.