Elsevier Editor, Philadelphia interview questions

It was hardly an interview. I had the first round of phone interview with HR staff, who had no courage to be honest to say to me on the spot, that they wouldn't be offering the salary I expect. The interview went well, and she explained the next steps of the procedures, which of course didn't happen despite that I was waiting for an interview with the actual hiring manager. I received a rejection email a week later to say that they went ahead with another candidate. I wish I was told by HR frankly that they won't be offering even the salary that is standard in the industry.