I applied online. The process took 2 months. I interviewed at World of Books (London, England) in Nov 2025
Interview
Terrible. I had to write up my own notes from the screening call and had to chase for updates from the ‘Head of Talent Acquisition’ at every stage of the process. I reached final stage, task was basically ‘how do you do Talent Acquisition’. I was ghosted by the recruiter and CPO for 2 weeks post final stage despite being told I would be updated during the week of my final interview. Feedback was offered and took a further 3 weeks to be provided, a total of 5 weeks post final interview. WOB talks about values but doesn’t understand them, I felt that I was rinsed for information from the task that was set (I should have withdrawn). They also took references ahead of final stage which is just a bit invasive when they haven’t offered you anything. The feedback was lazy for what is a quite senior role and added zero benefit or insight. They’ve been trying to recruit this role for nearly 12 months now…maybe it’s them.
I applied online. I interviewed at World of Books in Nov 2025
Interview
A 30 minute conversation which was just not long enough to establish if I was the right fit for the role. Most of the talking was from the interviewer and wouldn't have established suitability for the role in such a short time frame.
The first two stages went very well, a really smooth and exciting process. I really enjoyed getting the know the business.
After this is where it all went wrong. I waited for 2.5 weeks for feedback, and it was complete silence. I was then informed that all candidates had been rejected, and with no feedback.
This is honestly a shocking way to treat candidates, especially at a senior level, and is not in any way reflective of the values they have on offer.
Its a very difficult market at the moment for everyone, and this complete lack of care, duty and profesionallism is terrible to see.
Do better, and live up to the values you state to have.