While conducting my daily stroll through internet job boards, I saw the financial industry job I interviewed for was posted again.

The company was fast and furious about talking with me, then in a sudden turn of events decided there were other candidates with the specific experience they were seeking. Apparently those candidates didn’t have what they were looking for either.

What really caught my eye about the reposting is that it was through a headhunting company that solicits resumes from poor schleps who actually pay for the opportunity to submit an application. This kills me. Instead of charging the corporation that most likely has the money to pay for the search, it requires applicants, some of whom are unemployed, to shell out cash for the honor of sending in a resume.

You pay for the right to be fast-tracked to the hiring managers, but it seems like it takes money from people who may not have the extra cash … all for a chance at an interview that most likely won’t ever come.

I know because I applied to a job through this company about six months ago. In exchange for a $5 fee (paltry to some, but a meal for me) I was guaranteed a personal candidate manager, direct contact from the company’s hiring manager and the illusion of a real chance at getting the job providing that my resume was accurate. It even boasted a $1,000 hiring bonus.

It sounded like a great deal. But the reality was more like this: A barrage of emails asking nonsensical questions like “Have you been hired yet?” Hmm. I don’t know. You’re the recruiter. You tell me!! “Has anyone from the hiring company contacted you?” No. Did they say they wanted to meet with me? Does this mean I have an interview?

Carrots like this were endlessly dangled in front of my hungry eyes. I started to get frustrated. I told the recruiter I felt like the setup was a bait and switch, and she assured me that the hiring company would be in touch soon.

This went on for weeks.

Finally I received this message:

Hi XXX,

I hope you are doing well and the move is going well! Thank you so much for being an active part of the (headhunter company name) community! I just spoke with my account manager and I’m sorry to tell you that the (hiring company) has decided to pursue other candidates. They didn’t give a reason otherwise I’d share it with you.

Please continue to use (headhunter company name.com) as your go to job platform! Let me know if there is anything I can help you with.

Best,

Susan

I was shocked to receive this email for many reasons. First, I was supremely qualified for this position, and was amazed I didn’t even get a look-see. Second, I wasn’t moving. Did she send this note to the wrong person?

It ends up I was right. There was a second candidate who also had my name.

The bottom line was easy to read: I still didn’t have the job.