The on-site interview was scheduled. I was given the list of staff to speak about the role. While waiting for a flight, the weather turned into a blizzard. I called the company's travel agent to maybe schedule for another day. She insisted that it will be alright (by an agent in Tennessee speaking of Indianapolis, Chicago, and Pittsburg weather). I wasn't assured but I was flying at the company's expense, so I proceeded. I explicitly told the agent that she must ensure that I get back home that night, so I don't miss my work the next day. Arriving at the office and starting the interview. I was told that half of the scheduled people were absent that day, so we had to do the rest of the interviews remotely later. In-person interviews were fine, Small office, but people seemed uncomfortable making small talk when I recognized the interior designs of the office. I had to rush back to the airport because the interviews went over time. Another winter storm. My flight back was canceled because of another winter storm in Chicago. I called the agent. There was no answer since it was after 6 pm and I left the VM. I called again without an answer. An hour later, I got a call from the agent. She only said she would look for another route and hang up. I was without instructions for 2 hours. By the time the agent called back at 9:30 pm, she could only say the obvious: there's nothing she could do. Then she hung up after making unprofessional language. In 3 hours, I could have rented a car and drove halfway home. My only flight was to DC that night and once arrived, no more flight. For the first time in my life, I slept in an airport. I swore I would never turn to the Smith+Nephews. If they didn't take care of their prospective employee (make the exception in allowing the rental car for the long-distance drive, i.e.), they didn't take care of their employees. I got myself my flight home. I got myself in trouble for having an unscheduled day off. How about the agent's handling the next day? NONE. She didn't call or asked until it was time for reimbursing the receipts. I did not respond or give them any receipts. At the company's travel agent to the top, they are allowed (or permissible as long as it does not harm the company) to lie to the candidates/employees, put them/employees in danger, and acknowledge none of their faults. Obviously, the hiring manager was not aware of the travel agent's mishandling and neglect of my travel. The hiring manager asked when I could do the rest of the interviews. I'd be damned. What a shame, what a disorganized and disinterested bunch of people for an otherwise excellent and reputable company.
