Pros:
The interview at my preferred Applebee’s was quick, which suited my schedule. The manager was friendly and made the conversation welcoming. The restaurant appeared clean, and the staff seemed to work well as a team, suggesting a decent work environment.
Cons:
The hiring process was disorganized and unprofessional. I scheduled my interview a week in advance through their automated system, but my preferred location wasn’t notified, which left the manager unprepared. More frustratingly, I was told I’d hear back in 2-3 business days if hired, but if not, I should assume they “went in another direction.” Expecting candidates to guess their status is disrespectful and unprofessional. I found this lack of communication disappointing. It’s no wonder they struggle with retention when basic hiring courtesies are ignored.
Advice to Management:
Ensure the automated scheduling system notifies the location of interviews to avoid confusion. Adopt a formal declination process, like a simple email or text, to respect candidates’ time and improve your employer reputation. Better communication during hiring could help address retention issues.