It was a relatively easy process in that I was brought in fairly quickly, based on having a large amount of relevant experience and some existing connection with the organization. The conversation with the hiring manager was friendly and natural, as opposed to overly-structured and formal. I prefer interviews like this because it allows for conversation to flow more freely and being at ease, I can get a better sense of the company culture and they can also get a better sense of me as an employee and colleague. The reason I do not rate this interview as a positive experience (but also not altogether negative) is because after having such a friendly conversation, the hiring manager completely "ghosted" me, in spite of my reaching out with a thank you and subsequent emails checking on the status of filling the role. I have been both the candidate and the hiring manager. I have been the recipient of bad news and also the person delivering it. As a leader, I feel that it is important to be just as respectful of the people who work below you, as you are to the people who are above you-- and that also includes the people who would like to work with you. Even if it is not the answer that the recipient was hoping for, a friendly reply is always a good move.