I was interviewing for a position at Barrett Honors College, and this was easily the most unprofessional interview experience I have ever had -- which was disappointing, as I really admired Barrett beforehand.
After reviewing my resume, I was called by a member of the team to set up a first round zoom interview. This interview was about 35 minutes long, and involved around 7-8 of the team members at Barrett. The interview went very well -- all of the interviewers were very professional and seemed honestly interested in finding out more about me and my qualifications.
I was called the next day and invited to participate in a second interview, this time with the Dean and Assistant Dean. This interview also went extremely well, and even ended with the Dean and I brainstorming ideas for new programs we could implement. I was told in this interview that the final decision was between myself and one other candidate, and that I would be hearing back very soon, since they were looking to hire ASAP.
After this second round interview, I immediately sent a "thank you" email within 24 hours, and waited to hear back. And then continued to wait. After a little over a week, I sent a follow up email to my primary contact in the recruiting process -- and never heard back. She never even acknowledged receiving either of my emails, and I eventually resigned myself to the fact that I had been permanently ghosted by Barrett -- after the decision had come down to only two candidates!
After over a MONTH, I received an AUTOMATED email saying that they had decided to go a different direction. I have received better treatment after a phone screening flop. I thought Barrett seemed like a great place to work, but this shows that it likely isn't the great culture they claim. Barrett needs to work on their ability to professionally reject a candidate in a timely manner. This behavior is unprofessional and would not be accepted by candidates, and should not be acceptable from employers.