Phone screening with HR 2 weeks after submitting resume/application through their website (vague voicemail left at EOD asked to call back re: position, with no indication of what to expect). Screening took 5 minutes (again, at end of day): very brief walk-through of experience, why are you a good fit, current salary. When pushed back re: disclosing salary, was told that HR couldn't provide a range until I provided my current salary. Despite frustration with the situation, I disclosed my current salary and was told the starting point for the role's salary range (not given high end). HR told me my desired range suggests I might not be interested in the position, and when I pushed back with flexibility depending on role, HR wrote down a lower range than I previously stated (HR basically negotiated my desired range with me?). Was told they would want to bring me in for an interview, and received email that week requesting in-person interview (given 2 time slots over 2 days to choose from, both about 1wk out from invitation). Also requested three individual writing samples 1-2 days before the interview to review "before the interview," which seemed abrupt and slightly disorganized. Luckily, I had some available, or I'd be left scrambling at the last minute.
First interview involved same HR rep and hiring manager (separately). HR "interview" basically involved walking through company facts/info, given benefits overview, and asked a few "warm-up questions" that I was told would not be used in decision (but I'm sure they were...) Felt very strange. Was led to second part with hiring manager. Very nice, normal interview questions, good rapport, open with questions about company/role. Received an invitation for 2nd interview (same 2 slots/days option). Second interview did not involve HR. Met only with hiring manager (second time, separately from others), and two higher-ups (together). Again, everyone was incredibly nice. Asked normal, thoughtful questions, probed for more details re: certain situations/experiences, and was told they'd be making a decision within the week.
I followed up with the hiring manager after two weeks, and received no reply. I followed up with HR two weeks after that, and received a rejection within the hour. Frustrating to think that they could have informed me earlier of their decision, or that I might have just never heard back regarding a decision (when I was a finalist). Felt unprofessional.
