The interview process itself was well-structured. However, the lack of transparency around compensation was extremely misleading. During the the initial screen and interview process, compensation discussions referenced a base salary range of approximately $105k–$110k, and I was explicitly asked whether that range aligned with my expectations. Based on those conversations, I proceeded through 5 rounds of interviews.
Only at the offer stage was I informed that compensation was heavily adjusted based on geographic location, and that the maximum base salary for my location was $89k which is a significant and material deviation from what had previously been discussed, and below my current compensation.
While I understand the use of location-based compensation, the lack of transparency around how significantly it would impact the offer until the final stage was disappointing. This information would have materially impacted my decision to continue in a 5-round interview process.
My recommendation to candidates is to clarify how geographic compensation bands are applied as early as possible, as initial compensation conversations may not reflect the actual offer range even at the lowest number.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Tell me about a time you used data to solve a problem
I applied through an employee referral. I interviewed at Headway (NY) (Denver, CO) in Oct 2025
Interview
Five rounds of interviews, reached out to a professional and personal reference. Had to do a sales pitch for a senior PGA. Long process. Interviewers overall were very warm and friendly but the recruiter was sometimes not responsive.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
I’m an owner of an apartment, sell me on renting it on Air B&B
I applied through a recruiter. I interviewed at Headway (NY) (New York, NY)
Interview
The interview process was fully virtual and ran just over two months, including a few formal rounds, an additional craft-oriented session, and some informal calls with the hiring manager and PM I'd be working with. It was more touchpoints than I anticipated, and the timeline to an offer did take a while (about 1.5/2 weeks from when my final round closed). But honestly, the people made it such a positive experience. The recruiter, hiring manager, and team were warm, enthusiastic, and genuinely communicative every step of the way. I never once felt like I was in the dark or chasing anyone down. The length of the process is the one thing I'd flag for future candidates, but I accepted the offer and am glad I did!
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Tell me about a moment where you had challenges in aligning leadership or PM/EM partners?