Talent group was friendly and clear of the role on the phone and explained next steps; making the interview scheduling, travel and in-person visit run smoothly.
Video interview with hiring manager and his boss, along with subsequent phone calls were succinct and direct on what they were looking for in a candidate, mission of the role; along with typical questions about experience and how I had previously approached challenges similar to what the position currently faces. The hiring manager (VP-level) didn’t speak much on the interview. Feedback from hiring manager’s boss (EVP-level) was that I was “a good fit” and they proceeded to schedule an in-person meeting at their HQ.
In-person meeting was cordial and included lunch and tour of test tower. TK paid for transportation costs and hotel only. At the meeting, the direct supervisor (VP-level) didn’t show up and I was mainly engaged with his boss (EVP-level) who stayed engaged in communication and discussions for the brief visit (1-hour meeting + 1-hour lunch).
A couple of days later, the EVP called and told me they would not be extending an offer. Feedback included: “No red flags” and that the position “seemed like a big change and too much” (from what, it wasn’t made clear). When I reinforced my experience, as discussed previously in interview and on resume, response was “I don’t know you”. The conversation was kept professional and ended thereafter.
Advice: Be transparent if you are truly interested in a candidate. Don’t waste candidate’s time with an in-person meeting if unnecessary, and ask clarifying questions related to your concerns. In our case, it would have saved both of us a ton of time, effort and cost. Clearly, the direct hiring manager was not interested.