I thoroughly enjoyed my initial conversation; they were exceptionally welcoming and effectively conveyed the excitement surrounding the role! Unfortunately, the positive momentum ended there. The second interview, conducted, primarily consisted of reiterating what had been discussed in the first round, which felt somewhat redundant if I’ve already made it past screening? It was surprising that there was no dedicated time for a portfolio review, especially considering the nature of the position as a brand designer. This oversight became evident when I received feedback suggesting that I did not meet the requirements, despite having several years of experience in solo startup environments and fulfilling all other prerequisites. The ongoing availability of the position raises questions about the company's clarity regarding their needs. It appears they may be seeking an all-encompassing candidate at a reduced cost. I would recommend incorporating a portfolio review into the second interview to ensure a more comprehensive evaluation. Additionally, reviewing the selection process could potentially unveil missed opportunities for the company. I hope the founders take note of this feedback.