I started off interviewing with the hiring manager and had a really positive initial conversation. From there, I was quickly moved through multiple rounds, including interviews with the CMO’s current EA (who was in the process of leaving) and the Chief of Staff. Everything moved quickly, and each conversation went well. I was then asked to complete a homework assignment for my final interview with the CMO, which I felt was thoughtful and well aligned with the role. After my final interview, communication almost completely dropped off. I reached out to the hiring manager to get their email so I could send a thank-you note and didn’t hear back. I followed up again—nothing. I eventually texted and received their email, along with an updated timeline that had already been pushed back from what was originally communicated. After that, I continued to follow up a few times but didn’t receive any response. It started to feel like I was being ghosted. When I reached out one last time, I was told via text that they had decided to move forward with another candidate. Given how many rounds the process involved and the time investment required, the lack of communication and the way the decision was ultimately shared was disappointing and unprofessional.