I was first contacted by a Recruiter based in NYC (as am I) via email. We scheduled a phone interview for a Tuesday and I sent her work samples before the call for her to take a look at. She was super personable and laid back during the phone interview, but professional at the same time. We spoke of what the Hiring Manager was looking for in work samples, so I tweaked a few things and sent back to her that evening. She got back to me the next day (Wednesday) and said they would have a project ready for me to complete by the end of the week. I was sent the project from the Hiring Manager that Friday as promised.
The Recruiter touched base with me that following Monday to make sure all was good, and I told her I expected to submit the project Wednesday evening. I submitted it late Wednesday evening and was contacted early the next morning about setting up my trip to WI for the on site interview.
I worked with another HR manager in WI to set up my trip. We worked out dates as well as how long I wanted to be there. I requested 2 nights and to come in the day prior to have time in Madison. I even got to choose my NYC airport (trust me, it matters). Everything was accommodated easily and I was sent all proper paper work. HR Manager said by the end of the next week she would sent me maps and a schedule. She followed up with that.
I got an email the week before from the Recruiter letting me know they were excited to have me coming and let her know if I had questions or needed anything.
As for the on site visit: I was greeted by the HR team member I had scheduled my trip with. I was put into a comfortable room outside her office where I would meet with everyone. Before coming I was sent a schedule for the day and I met with several designers and team members individually at a set time. I think this was super important and helpful as I really got a feel for each person on the team. It was also nice to be able to get comfortable and set up in once place. I met with everyone on the schedule and everything went on time. I was really able to get a feel for the company, the specific team I'd be on, and how it worked. I also left knowing exactly what they were looking for. I was then given a tour of the Comer center (which is great)
I left the campus on time and really feeling great about the experience and everyone I met. Everyone was really willing to talk to me not only about the job and the work, but the personal aspects of relocating and living in Madison.
The original Recruiter followed up with me that afternoon and we set a time to speak in the morning. We discussed how it went and she said she would be putting the offer in for review. This was Wednesday. The following Thursday I had my official offer letter from them. She did keep in touch with me that entire week in between- as it took slightly longer than she expected.
I am now in the process of the relocation and working with the Relocation company. So far, all is going well.
Overall the Lands End interview process was great. I felt compelled to write this review because I have encountered so many unprofessional and negative Recruiter or interview experiences lately, and I know others are as well.
I'm hoping this will help anyone that may consider Lands End, especially anyone that would potentially relocate from NY or another city. Also, Madison is really cool!