The interview process was very relaxed and conversational. I had three interviews in total: a screening interview, a virtual interview with a hiring manager, and an in-person interview with multiple members of the hiring team. Everyone I interacted with was kind and respectful, and ultimately, I was extended a job offer. However, I feel the need to caution others about how this organization handled salary negotiation during the offer stage. After I requested a salary less than 10% above the initial offer, I was asked to provide professional references and told the team needed time to make a decision. Two business days later, I was informed that the offer was rescinded, at least in part due to “differing salary expectations,” and that the team had already hired another candidate who accepted the original offer. All of my references insist that they were never contacted, leading me to believe that my attempt to negotiate was the only contributing factor to their decision. I understand that employers are not obligated to negotiate or pause their search upon extending an offer, but the way this was handled felt misleading and reflects a poor hiring practice that discourages candidates from advocating for better compensation and benefits. This experience left a very disappointing impression of the organization.