I had an interview process that started with a conversation with an HR specialist. Before moving forward to meet the hiring manager, I was asked to complete a fairly extensive assignment consisting of five parts. While it was mentioned that completing all sections was optional, I put in the effort to cover each one and submitted the full assignment.
Afterward, I was told the hiring manager would follow up soon, but I never received any feedback, acknowledgment, or next steps. The lack of communication, especially after such a time-intensive task, was very disappointing. Regardless of outcome, providing closure or at least a brief acknowledgment would have been a much more professional way to handle the process.