Recently, a candidate of mine went through an arduous, four step process in trying to land a medical sales job. She had two phone interviews and a Zoom interview with the Regional Sales Manager. This took three hours of her time. Thankfully, she made it to a final interview which consisted of a meeting with the Regional Manager ( who already interviewed her three times) and the Western VP. During this final interview, both managers pummeled her with questions regarding her career moves ( appropriate), and questions about her upbringing ( totally inappropriate). They brought up a deceased relative which moved my candidate to tears. This interview lasted two hours. Now, five hours into the interview process, they told her that she “lacked the emotional makeup for the position.” Furious, she said, “You know what? You are right. I would not work for you even if you offered me this damned position.” And she left. Good for her.
Interviews are a two- way street. Just as the hiring managers are interviewing you, you are interviewing them, and you should demand the respect that every individual deserves. If the interviewer is going to demean you during the interview, imagine what they will do while you are working for them. An interview is a picture window into their style of management. Interviews are not life or death. If you are being insulted or demeaned, kindly close your folder, look at the interviewer in the eye, smile broadly, and tell them that you have better options on the table. Leave with dignity!
P.S. I have immediately dropped this company as a client, and my candidate happily accepted another position two days later!
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