I had a 30-minute recruiter screening, a 45–60-minute interview with the VP and Chief of Staff, and a one-hour panel interview. The team expressed that they were impressed and asked me to prepare a panel presentation with three detailed prompts. After I submitted my availability, the recruiter confirmed she was working on scheduling the interview. By that point, I had already completed my slide deck and prepared discussion questions. Less than 24 hours later, I was informed that my candidacy was being paused due to a ‘lack of alignment.’ This concern had never been mentioned during any of my interviews or prior to asking me to complete the presentation. When I followed up for clarification, no clear or specific feedback was provided. Overall, it was a disappointing and discouraging experience, especially given the time, energy, and preparation that went into the process.