Bizarre and weird group interview that homogenized everyone into "behavior analysis". Creepy and stupid, not based on the individual talent, knowledge, education, and experience one may bring to the company. Stood by with clipboards and watched as we "interacted". Orwellian. Really? This is for a company that wants people to go hiking or is this an interview for the CIA? Absolutely terrible not to mention stupid. Smart companies look at each person as a diamond, each facet a talent, knowledge, they want them to bring to the company to help everyone, including the company, shine. I have been an REI member for decades and was very disgusted by the whole interview process. During interview, also age discrimination became obvious. Not interested in people that knew whole history of the company, know who Royal Robbins was for example, extensive outdoor experience...things you would have expected. Not interested in older people with life experience, and God forbid, personalities (fyi: having a personality is still legal, last we checked). Problem may have been very young "manager". Bias toward younger applicants was obvious. This is not the company I thought it was. I also have no intentions to shop there ever again.

Group interviews were friendly and well managed. Staff were kind and understanding. Good and thoughtful interview process. I appreciate the relaxed atmosphere at the store and when speaking with the interviewers.