I went through 4 interviews with this company which was unnecessary.One phone interview, three in person. The interviews weren't even moving up the chain -- there were so many interviews (3 in one week) due to a lack of organization on the company's part. Some of the interviewers didn't make the first in person interview so we had to plan 2 more interviews. Also, I filled out a very long interview packet including researching and answering 2 essay questions (which no one ever asked me about in my interviews!)
The whole process was disorganized and unprofessional. The interviewer forgot about one interview so we had to reschedule. Then the interviewers were late to two of our meetings and kept me late causing me to miss my cab. Also, there was cussing and inappropriate language in 2 of my interviews. I am not a prude, but I feel like you should act formally and professionally in an interview.
The company seemed very interested in me until the last interview -- which is about how I felt. I liked the company and position at first -- challenging work, a lot of sharp people, etc. But, as the process went on, I lost interest. The company seemed disorganized which I did not like. Also, it seemed that what I thought the job was (and how it was presented) was different from the real job. That's fine. It was clear to me in that last interview that I may not be the best person for the job and the position might not be what I wanted. However, after 4 interviews, I wanted to follow through til the end -- see what they offered, if they offered, if it would work.
I assume that they felt the same uncertainty that I felt in that last interview so I am okay that they did not choose me, but I was extremely frustrated that after 4 interviews, they did not treat me with enough respect to tell me no. I was promised a follow up a couple days after the last interview. When I did not hear from them, I contacted them and they said that it was taking longer to decide and I would hear in two more days. Never heard, contacted them again and they said that it would take a few more days but to feel free to keep checking in. At this point, I was certain that even if offered the position, I was not interested any longer. It's fine to take longer to make a decision, just notify your candidate. ALSO, if you are no longer interested in this candidate, just tell them NO.
The funny thing is that the way I was treated validated my concerns -- lack of professionalism, disorganization, lack of clarity, etc. So, in some ways, I am grateful that their actions made my feelings clear. However, as a company, I don't think I would ever recommend to my friends or colleagues. Interesting work does not excuse disorganization and lack of professionalism.
The company may be a great fit for you - young people, exciting start up, but be prepared for disorganization (read the other reviews) and lack of clarity. This does not bother some people as much as it bothers me. But, I feel it is something worth knowing on the front end.
(The ironic part of all of this is: they contacted me to apply for the job)