The interview process itself was thoughtful and included engaging conversations with several senior leaders. The onsite experience was comprehensive and demonstrated meaningful investment in evaluating candidates for a complex leadership role.
However, communication consistency throughout the process could be improved. On multiple occasions, I was given timelines for follow-up that passed without update, requiring proactive outreach to obtain status information. Following the full-day onsite interview and travel, I was informed that the hiring manager would contact me directly regarding next steps, but no call or timeline update occurred.
After several weeks of interviews, assessments, preparation, and travel, the final disposition was ultimately communicated through a brief email after I again followed up proactively.
Executive candidates understand that hiring decisions are difficult and competitive. That said, clearer communication, expectation-setting, and a phone call after weeks of interviews, 4 hour assessments, and traveling for an onsite, full day, multi-panel interview would significantly improve the overall candidate experience for senior-level searches.