I applied for the job online and then received an email about setting up a call for an interview. The call was basically a screening to see if I was the right fit - which is typical of the way interviews go. Then I was asked to select dates and times of my availability for the five potential interviews I would have to go on. Before I had my interviews I read the glassdoor reviews to prepare. I also did research on this GitLab handbook they have. The guidebook talks about the interview process and what it would be like. I have my interviews, which were all done via zoom. Since the company doesn't have any offices, zoom (video conferencing) is there way of "meeting" you. Most of them were done in a home office environment. One of the interviewers was sitting in his family room on a couch. During my last interview, the guy was basically like, yeah so I'm pretty sure they are going to offer you the job. You'll hear back in the next day or so. Ok.......I still haven't heard back. Nobody has responded to any of my emails. I think it's quite unprofessional for someone to tell you they think the job is yours, when it isn't. After reading reviews on interviews, it seems that no response is the norm at this place.I basically wasted a month in a half with these people. The least they could do is let me know I didn't get the job.

GitLab interviewers had done their homework, reading my resume, cover letter, preparing thoughtful questions. Candidates should do the same, researching the position and company, and generally preparing well. I see now that many negative reviews of GitLab's process, which I'd read here before applying, are from candidates who did not do their homework. GitLab's handbook sets realistic expectations for the number and nature of interviews, questions, skill tests, and much more; study it. My own interview process was comprised of an appropriate mix of behavioral, background, technical, and industry knowledge questions, and a skills test. The process was thorough. As the decision and job involve significant investment and trust, it should be.