In order to qualify for the interview, I was required to fill out an essay via email. Then, there was a first phone interview with the person responsible for the hire as well as a videoconference interview with the same individual. Both of these experiences were extremely positive (though the essay requirement was a bit unusual). The company flew me in for a one hour panel interview with three HR individuals. Only one of the three panelists had reviewed my profile on LinkedIn in advance. When asked, none of the three read my essay material. This was a bit disconcerting since the essay was detailed and covered extensive detail about the very same questions they were asking me. Their team missed the opportunity to go deeper, create greater engagement, appear invested in my candidacy, and create a positive overall experience based on lack of preparation and seeming lukewarm interest during the interview. The interview was, in my opinion, way too short based on giving up three days to fly in for the interview. The lack of depth and engagement in the panel interview was extremely disappointing. When the results were provided (I was not going to be hired), the reasons for not hiring me were plastic and superficial. As a result, not only did the organization lose a potentially strong contributor, but they also lost a previously very satisfied store customer. I have no doubt REI fully deserves the fine reviews it consistently receives for being one of the best places to work. The Director I would have worked under was truly inspirational. Unfortunately, the panel of HR OD and Shared Service professionals came off as very protective of their sandbox and less than inspirational, though they were all very pleasant during the short interview session.