Recruiter Interview 1: I received a first interview invite, 15 days after submitting my application along with an NDA to sign. The interviewer asked me about my experience, motivation, and logistics related, and explained to me the process. It was standard, kind, and professional. I was immediately booked for a 2nd interview, which was really nice and exciting.
Technical Interview 2: The interviewer was really nice and kind, and the questions were related to product discovery processes, and behavior when challenges arise. 2 days later, I get invited to a 3rd interview with the head of department to perform a live task and walk them through it.
Live Task assessment 3rd interview: The task was to come up with wireframes and product features, related to a digital banking product. followed up by a Q&A with the head of department. It took me around 90 mins to put together some wireframes and documentation.
2 weeks later, I receive positive confirmation that they would like to move me to the final 2 interviews, and asked me to provide contact details of 2 references (1 manager, 1 colleague)
Another 2 weeks pass and I receive an email from HR telling me they can’t move forward with my candidacy as they’re unable to sponsor visas for residents of Lebanon.
I messaged the CEO of the company as I was heartbroken to lose out on this opportunity, and wanted to express my enthusiasm and excitement about stryber and if it’s possible to explore alternatives.
They replied back with “Please understand I don’t interfere with the hiring team, direct your questions to HR, Regards”
Maybe they’re right, but considering the region was going through war, and this job would have offered me relocation to a safer country, and the fact I invested 1 month of my time and energy, that they’d respond with something a bit more understanding and compassionate…
The way the CEO responded to me was a rude awakening that no matter the energy, drive, enthusiasm you pour into corporates, no one cares.