Review of My Interview Experience – Disappointing and Disrespectful Process
I recently went through a two-step interview process with this company, and unfortunately, my experience was extremely disappointing and unprofessional.
The first step was a screening interview conducted over the phone. I was transparent from the beginning about not yet having a Close Protection licence, but I clearly explained my relevant experience and intention to apply for the licence soon. I also inquired whether the company could potentially support with this process. The woman I spoke to was polite and understanding, and even mentioned that the company sometimes helps applicants with the licensing process. Based on this positive conversation, I was invited to the second stage: an in-person interview.
This is where things went downhill.
I drove two hours (one way) to the company’s office, only to be met with clear disinterest and what felt like discriminatory behaviour. The same lady from the phone screening greeted me at the door and showed me to an office, where I met another staff member – apparently a manager. As soon as she saw me, her attitude was visibly dismissive and grumpy.
The so-called “interview” lasted less than two minutes. She immediately told me that I needed a licence and strong UK-based experience, despite the fact that I had already disclosed my licence status in the initial call. When I mentioned my years of experience in my home country and my solid English skills developed over 10 years, she seemed to brush it off. Her facial expressions and tone felt judgmental, and the atmosphere was completely unwelcoming.
To make things worse, as I left, the woman from the screening interview told me, almost apologetically, “Sorry for being rejected.” That confirmed to me that the decision had likely been made before I even arrived. So why was I invited in the first place?
What’s most upsetting is the waste of time and money. I took a day off work, spent 4 hours driving in total, and even received a £80 parking fine because parking became free after 12, and I was there at 11:45. All this for an interview that could have been canceled or conducted with respect and honesty from the beginning.
It felt like I was brought in unnecessarily and treated with prejudice. If the company only considers applicants who already have licences and UK experience, they should be clear about that from the start, instead of misleading candidates and wasting their time.
Unprofessional, disorganized, and disrespectful process. I do not recommend engaging with this company.