Bombed an interview

Anonymous

April 17,2024 at 1:26AM UTC

Welcome to Fairygodboss!

We’re the largest online career community helping women achieve their career goals. Gain access to articles, jobs, events, and a supportive network of women and allies. Membership is free, always.

Bombed an interview

I am pretty sure I completely bombed an interview. Here is what happened. I went through a total of 9 interviews (this is a tech startup job) and the last hurdle was the CEO of the company. I was told by the recruiter this was just a cultural fit interview and not to sweat it. The CEO seemed nice enough but started to ask me to redesign his entire product in 10 minutes and listed a bunch of flaws using jargon that could only be described as business-speak (and terms way out of my field of expertise). This is for an individual contributor role in a field where I would never be asked to do such strategic work. I did my best, got off the Zoom call, and cried a bit. Is there any way to save this, or should I just chalk this up to experience? Has anyone else ever had this happen?

Why women love us:

Daily articles on career topics
Jobs at companies dedicated to hiring more women
Advice and support from an authentic community
Events that help you level up in your career
Free membership, always

Like

4 comments

Share

Share your insight

Join an authentic community that helps women support each other at work. Share your professional experience or ask for advice — you can even post anonymously.

4 Comments

Join the conversation

AnonymousApril 17,2024 at 1:53AM UTC
Nine interviews??
If you were asked questions beyond the realm of the role, I wouldn't sweat it. I CAN see why you'd be emotional, I know I would!!!!
Hang in there- SOMETHING positive will come of this, one way or another!!
AnonymousApril 17,2024 at 2:46AM UTC
You know what, it could have been a test of your openess to think outside your comfort zone.
To brainstorm so he could watch you think on your feet.....knowing this was clearly beyond what you've done.
I wouldn't count yourself out. Don't dwell on this and allow it to eat away at your confidence. Understand that no other candidate did any better.
AnonymousApril 17,2024 at 3:27AM UTC
I really don't think he was looking for "the answer" he was looking for your style of thinking and your creative process.
Steve Jobs did this all the time.
J-M SeveranceApril 20,2024 at 1:30PM UTC
It's a little "gotcha" though. And cruel. The CEO could have done this in a way that was more appropriate to the position the applicant would actually have.

Browse recent posts

jljl3ph

Plan construction projects with the Concrete Calculator, a practical online tool for estimating material quantities, calculating concrete requirements, managing costs, and simplifying building work.

Hiii everyone!

I'm. Current looking for remote jobs

Your trusted partner for a cleaner, healthier home in Los Angeles, California. At Quick Clean Carpet Care, we've been providing top-notch carpet cleaning, upholstery cleaning, pet accident treatment, hard floor cleaning, rug cleaning, window cleaning, and house washing services for over 9 years. Our team of experts uses eco-friendly solutions and state-of-the-art equipment to leave your home sparkling clean and germ-free. From stain removal to deep cleaning, we've got you covered. Serving Los Angeles and surrounding areas, we're committed to delivering exceptional customer service and unparalleled results. Call us today to schedule your appointment and experience the Quick Clean difference!

Achieve your career goals.

Be part of the largest online career community for women to find jobs, advice, and support — for free.