The interview process began with an initial screening call with Talent Acquisition to review my background and salary expectations. This was followed by a 40-minute conversation with the hiring manager to discuss my experience, the role’s requirements, and the interview process. I then completed four additional rounds: A portfolio review with the hiring manager and another designer, where I presented my work and answered questions about my design approach. A design exercise with the hiring manager related to the type of work Alpaca does, though not tied to an active project. A portfolio review with two cross-functional teams, including an engineer and product manager from each team. A final interview with the co-founder focused on how I approach design problems and collaboration. Throughout most of the process, communication was clear and responsive. However, after the final interview, communication stopped entirely, and I did not receive a response to my follow-up messages.

A very disappointing experience. I went through a lengthy process ending in a portfolio review. Was explicitly told next steps were coming within a few days and nearly three weeks passed with no communication. Found out the role had been filled only after following up myself, with no feedback provided on why I didn’t progress.