It's amazing how many variations of the “interview process” there are. For purposes of this post, remove the content of each interview and focus on the process and ask yourself these questions:

1. Has there been clear communication about what the process is?

2. Is there a master of ceremonies responsible for moving it along?

3. Are they thinking about the details?

4. If it's relocation,  was your visit thought out?

Often I review an interveiw process flow chart that details the steps, from first conversation to start date. There are an amazing number of touch points each candidate has from start to finish and plenty of room for disconnect.

As a candidate, there are tactics to help you through process if your potential employer is having trouble defining theirs.

1. Ask the question about process, if you can't get the full picture, break it down and at least get next steps.

2. If they haven't assigned you one, find an internal coach.

3. Ask for all the details, cell phone numbers, alternative contacts and definitely, contact information for assistants with access to schedules.

4. Be thorough with your planning if you are traveling for an interview. It's common for companies not to think through the details. Unfortunately, many companies don't think of themselves as recruiters and the current market has only supported the lack of recruiting. So if you are going to a new region and they don't offer to take you to dinner or tour the area, set it up for yourself.

In my experience, the absence of process and detail IS NOT reliable information to evaluate the company or it's culture. It just means that they aren't very good at the hiring process.