The initial recruiter call was scheduled for 30 minutes but ran to 50, largely due to the conversation following a scripted format. Some basic role-specific questions could not be answered, as the recruiter was based in a different region to the role. This felt misaligned, particularly given the emphasis on reviewing company materials beforehand, which largely mirrored the information shared on the call. The hiring manager joined the interview late and came across as abrupt in their communication style. When asked about company culture, particularly in light of existing online reviews, the response suggested these were an accurate reflection, with limited additional context or balance. I was invited to progress to a third stage, however the preparation provided by the recruiter and accompanying documentation were inconsistent. Guidance on interview approach further reinforced concerns around culture and expectations. I chose to withdraw from the process at this stage.

The interview process was unnecessarily long. Following a screening call I had to do an interview with the hiring manager, then 4 other interviews with different people from the company and a presentation. The process was so gruelling that I was very close to quitting halfway through. Despite that I got very little opportunity to ask questions or learn more about the company. The interviewers appeared friendly but it was very obvious that they were just reading the interview questions off a list rather than making it conversational, which felt unpleasant considering how much time and effort I put in. In the end it took them 2 weeks after the final interview to get back to me with feedback, despite the role still being open, which felt very disingenuous.