To look for work right now is not easy. Just check LinkedIn to see the struggles first-hand by people. I think companies, and interviewers, forget they are communicating with human beings, including when they send those lovely rejection emails.
I think people who interview for corporate roles, and some who provide feedback, can be arrogant. And that’s putting it mildly.
I recently interviewed for a contract role (not even a full-time role) that was full of screaming red flags.
The company is acquiring another one. A company with about 5K employees may be adding another 1K with the merger. It’s a relatively small company. I’ve supported company divisions more sizeable than that.
For this transformation, there is no executive sponsor. One leader defined the change as managing by FOMO. A question during another interview asked how I’d handle 15 approvers for one communication. 15!
Then, their feedback to me was condescending at best.
Specifically:
“They commented that the 3 of you had very different styles which was helpful for them to see who they felt would fit best at (the company). They also shared that they felt you would thrive in a role where the scope was deeper and narrower; perhaps a bit more defined. More specialized perhaps?”
My response:
“Thanks for the feedback. I appreciate it. Interestingly, this project is deep and narrow. I also find different work styles and perspectives lead to better outcomes. Regardless, I wish them well with this transformation.”
I took this feedback with a grain of salt, especially given the horrid red flags and the narrow thinking of these interviewers.
Sometimes a “no”after interviews is truly a gift in disguise.
I’m more than fine to let someone else navigate the red flags of this contract role. I trust my gut and may not have taken the role if offered. I’m better than that and am moving on.
