I applied online, and it took them 2 months to finish all the process. I have three round interviews:
1. Search committee panel interview
2. hiring manager and department director interview
3. interview with president of the college.
I appreciated the opportunity to speak with each group, and I was told they were impressed with my work.
However, after the final interview, the communication slowed significantly. I followed up with HR multiple times and eventually received a brief, impersonal response saying that the search was being closed due to “unforeseen circumstances” and that the position would be re-posted with some changes. At the time of writing this, the new posting has not yet appeared.
Advice to the college:
Respect the time and emotional investment candidates bring to the process. If a role is being paused or restructured, offer clearer communication and more compassionate responses. Slow processes are understandable in public institutions, but treating applicants with professionalism and transparency should always be a priority.