EXPERIENCE:
Two interview rounds and assignment.
First: Interview with Comms Manager and HR
Second: Interview with Comms Manager, Director, Senior Graphic Designer
HR expressed enthusiasm after each interview.
WHAT HAPPENED:
Unfortunately, a job offer was retracted after I brought up salary preferences.
I was originally interviewed (and told I would receive an offer) for a more junior position. I was then told that a more senior role I was "better suited" to had become available and they'd like to make an offer on this role instead. But I could choose. The offer would be sent that same day. Did I have any other questions?
I decided to touch on salary. My expectations were in the same range as what they'd already offered. I said I hoped the offer would reflect the scope of (now senior) responsibilities. I hoped it would not be too far off what I made a year ago but that I also appreciated the fact that this is a non-profit. That, aside from the perks, I believe compensation is important. HR responded that they would like to see a past payslip.
I went home expecting to receive a job offer as promised and instead heard nothing.
I enquired about the offers and got an email: 'you made your salary expectations clear and we want to reconsider whether you fit into the team.'
AFTERMATH:
HR finally got back and said they would not proceed with my candidacy for either role as my mentioning salary expectations had made them realise I would not fit the team.
I agree. Not a place I'd want to work.
In conclusion: unprofessional and misleading handling of candidates and job specifications. Not a place for ambitious women, despite being a majority-women organisation.