DEAR JOYCE: I had an excellent work history at a company where I had worked for almost six years when it was sold to a larger corporation. My department was transferred to another city, but I agreed to stay beyond my exit date to finish a special project.

Several months later, hearing of an opening at my former company, I re-applied, interviewed and was rated "most qualified." After that, stone cold silence.

When the successful candidate didn't pan out three months later, the job was open again. An office friend e-mailed me to quickly contact the department supervisor, who said I wouldn't have to re-interview and would just start working.

We settled on salary and hours and agreed that I would start work the following Monday. She only had to check "one little thing" and would get back to me within 24 hours. Instead, the supervisor left on vacation. I contacted her boss, the department manager. He apologized for the confusion and explained that the company had to follow certain guidelines. After telling me again that I am by far "the most qualified," the manager said that they had to interview other applicants and he'd call me the following week.

Nine days later, the manager contacted me to report they were still interviewing, but that he should have an answer within a few days. Three weeks later, the manager did call -- to tell me they had hired someone else.

I am upset, not about the job loss but about being put on hold for six weeks. Isn't there some code of ethics companies should adhere to, or am I expecting too much? -- Strung Along

Two experienced employment experts share their insights.

Any of several factors could be at play, says James M. Lemke, a human resources executive for Opportunity International and 15-year veteran of major-league employment consulting: Continued...