Job Description posted on LinkedIn. Submitted cover letter and resume for review. A few days later they requested I take a performance/personally test. I apparently passed this screening requirement with an initial phone interview by a HR type scheduled. The phone interview lasted about 20 minutes. None of the questions were hard. Mostly pertaining to my work career and potential job fit with Mitchell. The HR person stated that she would make a recommendation to the hiring manager to interview me. In concert with this, I needed to fill out their on-line form and submit a personal essay based on Mitchell’s core values. Their on-line form was very detailed along with asking for a recommended five (yes that 5) references complete with phone numbers and email addresses. The essay took about a day to complete. In addition, the HR type stated that the essay is a core requirement and is reviewed by their CEO before hiring. So, I took the extra time to ensure satisfaction. Interview with the hiring manager apparently went well. About 45 minutes in all. Once again, general career and job related questions. I asked her if she reviewed my essay. The answer was no. Being busy was the excuse. ..so much for the core stuff. She stated that she was making a recommendation of moving me forward in their process. The next step was to schedule some time with her manager along with completing a PowerPoint task. The requirement was based on a specific product offering to a key client of theirs. Mitchell would provide me with the basic information along with some pictures and clip art; I would need to do the rest. This task also included the follow-up email that I would write following a pitch that I would make to their client. The PowerPoint took me the better part of the weekend. Had to drill deep to ensure proper perspective and knowledge of both product offering along with culture and potential fit with the client. I submitted my PowerPoint and follow-up letter at the requested date since this was a time related task. After a four day wait…no word or email for receipt of the materials; so, I called HR to determine the disposition of the process. They stated that they did in point of fact receive my materials and forwarded the materials to the hiring manager. And, someone would be getting back with me to set up another phone interview. …that was the last I heard from anyone. Additional emails and phone calls were not returned. Just incredible when you consider the time and efforts devoted to the pre-employment tasks. Simply stated, there are no excuses for this approach with new applicants. None. At least return the call or email and provide a professional closure. Gee!