In today’s job market, it’s not uncommon for candidates to go through three, four, or even five rounds of interviews before receiving an offer — or worse, a polite rejection. For job seekers, this process often feels less like a professional evaluation and more like an endurance test. So, why is this still the norm, and how do candidates really feel about it?
The Rising Frustration
Let’s be honest: candidates are tired.
Tired of taking time off work for yet another interview. Tired of repeating the same stories to different panels. Tired of investing emotionally in a role only to be ghosted in the end.
What started as a way for companies to be thorough has, for many, turned into a frustrating and demoralizing experience. The logic is understandable — hiring the right person is important — but when the process becomes unnecessarily drawn out, it signals something else: indecision, inefficiency, or even a lack of respect for a candidate’s time.
The Impact on Candidates
1. Burnout: The emotional energy it takes to prepare, show up, and perform in each round is immense. Multiply that by three or more rounds, and the mental load becomes unsustainable.
2. Lost Opportunities: Every extra round delays decisions. Candidates may decline other offers or miss out entirely because they’re waiting on one “maybe.”
3. Doubts About the Company: A drawn-out interview process can make a company seem disorganized or overly bureaucratic. Candidates start to question if that’s what it’s like to work there.
Is There a Better Way?
Yes — and some companies are already doing it. Streamlining the hiring process, combining interview panels, and being upfront about how many rounds a candidate can expect all go a long way. Transparency builds trust. Efficiency shows respect.
Final Thoughts
Hiring is important. But so is valuing candidates’ time and energy. Companies that recognize this stand out in a crowded market — not just as employers of choice, but as organizations that treat people like people.
If you’re a hiring manager or recruiter reading this, take a moment to consider: Do your interview processes reflect the kind of culture you’re trying to build?
And if you’re a candidate caught in the loop of endless interviews — you’re not alone, and your time is valuable.