The recruiter reached out to me about a dream opportunity. I was thrilled. My three rounds went well and I was delighted when she asked for references -- companies don’t do that unless they are serious about a candidate. I was surprised that they wanted four references (four is above industry standard) and was surprised again that they require them to be submitted in writing via a lengthy online form. That’s a huge favor to ask of your references especially when a quick phone call is standard. Fast forward, all four were submitted… and I never heard from the recruiter again. I followed up twice with no response. To ask for any references and then not communicate a rejection or possible timeline delay is a no-no as a recruiter and as a business. I figured she got Covid or that there was an unexpected emergency or standard corporate delay but nope. Still silence a month later.  Lessons for the recruiter: It's a small world. You may repeatedly cross paths again with your candidates and should want to nurture the relationship for future referrals. You represent the business. Communicate. Respect a candidate's time. I get it, sudden business changes happen that affect if an offer is going to be extended and they’re out of your control. Let the candidates know so that they can process the rejection and move on.  Sad to say that this experience soured my view of the NBA.