I don’t usually write reviews like this, but I felt compelled to share after such a disappointing experience. I recently applied for an Executive Assistant position supporting the President and Board. In my application, I was transparent that I had previously lived in the area, had since moved out of state, and would be moving back in 3–4 months. I also noted that I was fully prepared to work remotely until then — and even willing to expedite my move for the right role. HR expressed interest and scheduled an interview.
Being a planner at heart, I spent hours preparing — researching the company, learning about its mission, and reflecting on how my skills and values aligned with the role.
On the day of the interview, 15 minutes passed…then 20. I finally received a call 30 minutes late (after calling the HR rep and leaving a message). I understand delays happen, so I brushed it off. But the very first words out of the her mouth were that the position needed to be filled onsite within two weeks, three max. Given the circumstances I had clearly shared, I couldn’t help but wonder why they moved forward with me at all. Still, I kept an open mind.
We discussed salary next. The figure was lower than my current pay, but I was willing to consider it because I genuinely wanted to explore the opportunity. Then I was told they had already interviewed an internal candidate who did very well, and that I might instead want to consider another open EA role — supporting TEN executives, for less pay.
At no point was I asked a single question about my skills, experience, or what I could bring to the company.
The following week, I received an email that they went forward with another candidate.
After the time I invested in preparing, the overall experience felt careless, discouraging, and unprofessional. Applicants deserve better.
