This was a really tough interview process, especially considering how it's a candidate's market now. A recruiter found me when I wasn't looking and seemed to outline the process pretty well except for a presentation step that we didn't discuss. Now that I think about it, the actual salary range was never confirmed (just what I would like to make) and I was never asked to officially apply for the job online (nor did I). I was assured that the position was remote (I do not live in Austin) but several people I interviewed with talked about the office-based culture. I never really felt like I had a shot but I kept going because I found the company to be intriguing and the hiring manager was great. After talking to the recruiter, I virtually met the hiring manager. Next, the hiring manager and some people from the team for a few hours. Then, a panel-style interview where I gave a presentation. I took PTO and spent a lot of time preparing the presentation. In the end, it sounded like they didn't know what they wanted in the role or the person. They at least let me know I was out (without any feedback). It appears that they're still trying to find someone in Austin where it's competitive and there are dozens of jobs just like this one. It wasn't a total waste of energy as I learned about myself in the process and met with a couple of nice people.

Kelsey, the recruiter, is great. Super responsive, smart, answered every question I asked with confidence and no BS. The hiring manager was also enjoyable to talk to and I felt like both conversations were with competent, professional people I removed myself from the interview process for my own reasons, but believe they are doing great work. If it had worked out, I would have enjoyed going forward with the process.