The process was supposed to be 4 stages: initial screening with internal recruiter, then competency interview with the hiring manager, then a panel with the wider team, then a final interview with the head of department. What actually happened: recruiter interview, then the hiring manager wasn't available for a week or two (despite this apparently needing to fill the role urgently) so instead I was put on a call with the head of department (this was supposed to be the final stage). This person began the interview by saying "I haven't done this role myself so I won't be able to answer many questions you may have about it", great start. They then asked me questions via the STAR method in a very rigid fashion: there was no opportunity to expand on stories or delve into details, it was literally "tell me about a time when" and then "ok. next question, tell me a about a time when..." and repeat. Ultimately, it was a horrible interview with somebody who seemed very uninterested in speaking with me, or who was generally unfamiliar with how to politely chat with other humans. I was told the role was filled internally. Feel like I dodged a bullet especially as I've since learned of mass layoffs at the company.

I have had two different interview processes with Gartner now, and both times I have been ghosted by the recruiters. There needs to be a better follow up process, please let your candidates know if they will not be going forward with the interview. It's very disheartening and honestly, rude.