I recently interviewed for a senior-level position and was disappointed by how unprepared the interviewer was, especially given that the role was described as "critical to the company’s future." The interview was conducted by the Chief Marketing & Growth Officer, who arrived late, had not reviewed my resume in advance, and only asked to see my portfolio at the very end. Throughout the conversation, the tone felt impersonal and transactional. There was little effort to create a welcoming or respectful dialogue. The interviewer repeatedly mentioned how small the team was and how they were doing the work of ten people, framed in a way that felt more like a warning than a selling point. When highlighting that many team members came from Google, it was presented as a credential rather than a meaningful insight into team dynamics or culture. Also given the wave of recent Google layoffs, that’s hardly surprising. After 25 years in the tech industry, mostly in the Bay Area, I’ve learned how small this world really is. Candidates are often future partners, customers, or even hiring managers themselves. That’s why treating people with professionalism and basic courtesy should never be overlooked, especially not by someone in a senior leadership position. Not reviewing an applicants resume and portfolio for an important role is disrespectful. You are better off canceling the interview. This experience left me concerned about the company's leadership culture and how future employees might be treated. I hope the organization takes candidate experience more seriously moving forward.