Pros: Initial outreach was clear and timely. The role itself sounded interesting and the first interview was scheduled quickly. Cons: The interview process dragged on for several weeks with little communication. I completed two in-person interviews and provided references, which created the impression an offer was imminent. After all of that, I was declined with a brief email instead of a phone call. During one of the interviews an interviewer made a comment about my age. Even if meant jokingly, age-related remarks are inappropriate and left me uncomfortable. Advice to Management: Review and streamline your recruitment process. Be transparent with candidates about timelines, avoid running reference checks before a decision is made, and train interviewers on appropriate topics. Candidates invest significant time and effort: respectful, timely communication makes a difference.