I was reached out two weeks after I applied. They asked me to complete a task. Normally, I would politely decline since I do not tasks for free but I really wanted the position. I completed the tasks and asked the hiring manager to confirm receipt. A month later and two follow up emails later, I was completely ghosted by the hiring manager. Adding insult to injury, they increased the maximum salary by 2K. I see this as a blessing in disguise as I dodged a bullet expressing interest with an unprofessional organization. This is the first time in my 10+ year career I have ever been ghosted like this.