1st Round- DM in person, very personable and genuinely interested in you.
2nd Round- RM phone interview, knowledgeable, quite involved with stores, again genuinely interested in you
3rd Round- HR RM phone interview, slightly more intimidating, but nothing to fear, thoughtful questions.
I personally know I exceeded their expectations by asking questions they had never heard before, applying my background and passions to my work, etc. I felt very comfortable, prepared, and confident with each interview.
They were in a rush to fill the position, and interviewed me at odd times of the day due to their schedule, but it wasn't an issue since I truly wanted this job. I was not contacted during the time frame I was told, so I called and left voicemail. I received a call a few days later saying it was between myself and an internal candidate and that I would receive a call by the following Tuesday with a final answer. I did not receive a call, called Weds to leave a voicemail, and have yet to receive a call (which is well over a week ago). I figured out on my own they had promoted the ASM there because they posted online they were hiring a new ASM. After my first interview with the DM, I had brought in a thank you card, making sure she understood this job is exactly what I need in my life right now and that I would like to further discuss the company's charity events. I gave this to the ASM to pass along to the DM. I am not sure if she received my card.
As a store manager at my company, I feel it is common courtesy to let my applicants know if they were or were not hired, as I know they are applying for a reason. If I were to leave them in limbo, I would fear they would speak poorly of us, not apply again of another position arises, and suggest others should not apply either... I hope Carter's considers this feedback.