This was about as informal an interview as one might imagine, but that is because it is a small startup. In fact, I received no job title at all but was referred by my neighbor because of my plant science background and past degree from UC Davis. The company was very interested in UCD graduates as their focus is an agricultural product -- seemingly unusual for Silicon Valley.. I received the referral Thursday afternoon, called the next morning and was invited to interview within a couple hours. The two principals I met with were brilliant and cordial. We discussed the basic focus of the company, background of founding scientist, a little of the CEO's background and mine, as well a very little bit about what the job would entail. I still felt foggy about specifically what the job was and queried them about it. It still seemed a vague job description at the end of the interview, but I was interested in pursuing it farther. They advised me the founder's son and research director would call me to discuss further. The following Tuesday he called and did an impromptu phone interview. It became apparent he was less interested when he learned that my UCD degree was 30 years ago, despite that I am currently completing a PhD. But also, it seemed he was looking for a different sort of profession and I must admit myself that it was not a perfect fit.