From the initial application closing date, it was nearly 6 weeks before I was invited to interview. Network Rail were initially helpful, re-scheduling my appointment to a later time in the day. However, contact went dead after that. I got no response to my questions I emailed and enquired about and I had to contact them a second time to answer my questions (practical ones I might add, I wanted to know if parking was available at their site in Milton Keynes). The interview itself was fine, some technical questions and some situational questions. I was then told that there would be a second round of interviews, with someone higher than the two people interviewing me. It would have been nice to have known this from the start. Unfortunately, a week passed where I heard absolutely nothing back so I again contacted Network Rail and they then confirmed that I was unsuccessful. I am sure if I had not contacted them, I would have heard nothing. This is not acceptable from a company of this size. Candidates take time out of their working day, expense on travel and then hear nothing. It is simply poor manners and indicates a lack of customer service. I have asked for interview feedback but I am extremely dubious I will receive any.

First phone contact with the internal recruiter was excellent, but prior to this, and here's the kicker... it was nearly eight weeks from the initial application/submission, with no communication at all. Pre interview the internal recruiter was again very helpful, and the interview itself was a very pleasant affair; well structured and I left with an overall, positive feeling for the people and the organisation. Post interview I heard absolutely nothing for two weeks, when I finally received my happy note, 'no reply' email, stating 'unsuccessful'. Simply put, that's just not good enough folks. After patience, effort, careful preparation and expense on my part (including rail fares) - thanks a lot, uff. So disappointing, I expected more after speaking with the HR recruitment officer, and meeting with the two interviewers, who were fantastic, I feel that their organisation (process) really let all of us down. There is much room for improvement along the candidate selection/process track here. Schedule some work, we don't mind waiting for improvements.