Phone screen with recruiter. Video interview with hiring manager, who was candid that she made an offer to an internal candidate who declined and would need someone quickly. On Wednesday evening, I was asked to submit a work sample by Friday morning. Given my current full time job, I managed to still submit this, though I had to ask for more clarification given the vague request. Almost immediately upon submission, I was asked to submit another body of work-which in it if itself, was quite disappointing. I told the recruiter I would be able to do so for Monday (as I was on a bereavement day). I was able to submit it the day before. Regardless, I was met with a general decline a few days later with the “we’ll keep your resume for open positions” line. Though disappointed, I responded politely and asked for any feedback as to why I wasn’t selected. Never heard from the recruiter again, which is probably all I needed to know about the operation. My suggestion would be to stop telling to your silver/bronze medal candidates (especially after they’ve completed more than just a phone screen) that you’d like to keep them warm for future openings if you truly don’t intend on doing so. I’ve received no email or calls aligned to my talent pool. Just decline straight out with a “good luck” instead.