Mostly non technical interview, were seeking people with drive for their initial idea. Were very receptive to feedback and willing to work together. Open to ideas and displayed great understanding for potential direction of the application.

Had an introductory call with their VP of Engineering, and I was rejected immediately after asking for the top end of the salary range that was shared with me. There was no evaluation of my actual skills, experience, or ability to deliver impact. Just a rejection purely based on compensation. If the goal is to hire top talent, then it should be obvious that top salaries must be on the table. When an employer states the maximum salary is 100K, it’s only logical that any serious candidate would align their expectations with that number. Expecting candidates to undervalue themselves right from the start signals a misalignment in how talent is recognized and rewarded. Compensation should reflect market reality, the skills being sought, and the impact the role demands - not a race to the bottom. I think I dodged a bullet there.