My recent experience with Buena left much to be desired. After being provided with a vague frontend task (with an optional backend component), I completed the frontend as required, ensuring I went above and beyond by adding automated tests, proper documentation and containerising everything. Despite this, I also decided to implement the backend to showcase my capabilities fully.
After submitting what I considered a solid, well-rounded solution, I was met with a rejection without any constructive feedback. Upon following up few times, the only response I received was, “there is just too much potential for improvement in the task.” This vague critique was both unhelpful and frustrating. If there were specific areas needing improvement, they were not communicated at all. How is an applicant supposed to improve without any meaningful feedback?
The task itself was a multi-page application with limited guidance, leaving me to make a series of assumptions. It felt less like an evaluation of my technical skills and more like a guessing game. If companies expect candidates to spend days solving their challenges, they should either provide clear instructions or offer meaningful feedback in return.
While it’s fair to set high expectations, they should also respect the time and effort of candidates. A lack of transparency and constructive communication risks alienating talented professionals who may otherwise be willing to contribute to the company’s growth.
Overall, I’d encourage Buena to refine its hiring process. If you want candidates to excel, provide clearer guidelines and meaningful, constructive feedback. Otherwise, don’t expect applicants to spend days trying to read your mind.
