30 minute call scheduled with the CEO Adam Dell. Spent only 10 minutes with me. Just wanted to know what I did in my current role, day to day as an advisor. Told me the team would be in touch if they wanted to pursue formal interview. Didn’t seem like he really wanted to be there talking to me. I was able to ask for one question: What motivated you to start this company? His answer (like many startup ceos I would imagine) was to “revolutionize” a “broken” industry.

The concept of interviewing with the CEO first is smart and efficient, but the execution here missed the mark. The conversation felt like an unproductive time waster. I’ve interacted with many leaders throughout my career, and this CEO was by far the most uncharismatic and uninspiring. If the company wants to attract top talent, the first touchpoint at the executive level needs to reflect strong vision, energy, and leadership—not leave candidates questioning the direction and culture from the start.