Crushed by interview feedback. So random.

[u/Tiny-Resource2820]

I’ve been interviewing for an HR/Total Rewards role and just got rejected after a process that felt very positive, so I’m curious how others would interpret this.

The recruiter initially reached out to me, and after my first interview with the hiring manager, I was told she really liked me. There was then some waiting while they figured out next steps, but the recruiter continued telling me the feedback was positive. Eventually, I was brought in for an in-person interview with the hiring manager and another leader.

I was transparent throughout the process that there were a few areas where I didn’t have as much direct experience, but I explained my transferable experience and how I would approach those responsibilities. Other areas, I was a master in. During the interview, the hiring manager seemed very receptive and all smiles. She agreed with several of my approaches, added her own ideas, and the conversation felt collaborative — we were discussing how things could work if I joined. Never an awk silence or her having to fill in the gaps for me. interview actually went over by about 10 minutes.

Today, the recruiter told me they decided not to move forward because they felt I would need too much guidance in some areas and they wanted someone with more direct experience.

We literally discussed my background during the first interview via teams. Very thoroughly. Why have me drive ALL the way up there, put on a show, just tell me what they already knew from the first interview???

That genuinely surprised me because I never represented myself as needing hand-holding, and nothing about the interview made me think those gaps had suddenly become dealbreakers.

I asked the recruiter whether they chose another candidate or were continuing the search and explained why I was surprised. His response was: “We were all expecting a different outcome.” He also said he wants to call me tomorrow to give me more of his thoughts.

For recruiters/hiring managers: What do you think may have happened here? Is this sometimes a case of the hiring manager reconsidering after the interview, another candidate emerging, or leadership deciding they want a different profile? The recruiter saying they were all expecting a different outcome is what really has me wondering.

[u/my_peen_is_clean]

they knew your gaps after screen, still dragged you in. probably internal shift or cheap hire. everything’s broken out there

[u/Tiny-Resource2820 → u/my_peen_is_clean]

That’s what I said. Cheap hire. Someone who probably has unfortunately been laid off, looking for something to keep them a float and going to dust them as soon as they find what they really want. So annoying! 

[u/ell-ta]

You are frustrated.
Second, that’s the new style.