I was invited to interview after submitting my application and was asked to discuss my experience with a recruitment specialist. It is quite evident from my CV that my background is primarily in residential roles rather than retail; however, these skills are highly transferable, and I assumed this was the reason I was selected to interview.
Unfortunately, the experience was disappointing. I took time off work to attend, only to be informed 4 weeks after the interview that I would not be progressing further. The decision appeared to be based on questions such as my experience with specific CRM software—something that is not listed on my CV—and the expectation that the next stage would involve both a managerial interview and a task using that same software.
The discussion around salary was also unproductive. I was asked early in the process to state my expectations, and when I later inquired about the salary range for the role, I was given the exact figure I had originally provided, with no additional clarity or transparency.I was told since that's what I stated in the application process, that is what I can expect. Technically zero transparency throughout the process.
Having worked with large organisations across the UK for over a decade, I can confidently say this was one of the least professional recruitment experiences I have encountered. Within the first few minutes of the interview, it became clear that the process was unlikely to be a constructive use of time.
Additionally, there was a three-week gap between my application and the first interview. Notably, the role was reposted on LinkedIn the same day I received my interview invitation, which further added to the impression of a disorganised hiring process.
Overall, a very disappointing experience.