Unfortunately, my interview experience with Hastings Direct was not a positive one. From the outset, the interviewers appeared to be rather unfriendly and made little effort to create a welcoming or comfortable environment. This made the entire process feel quite tense and uninviting. The role I applied for was advertised as an entry-level position, yet the questions I was asked were clearly suited to a mid-level candidate or higher. I was able to answer all of them correctly, but the mismatch between the level of the role and the expectations during the interview was disheartening. In total, I was asked over ten detailed and often technical questions, which gave me the impression that the interview was designed to trip me up rather than to genuinely explore my suitability for the role. I also had the impression that the company may lack sensitivity towards candidates for whom English is not a first language. I have worked in highly respected international companies and possess a strong command of English, but it didn’t feel as though this was recognised or appreciated during the interview. Afterwards, I learned that the position was offered to someone with significantly less experience and who struggled to answer many of the technical questions. This only reinforced my sense that the selection process may not have been entirely fair or objective. I hope Hastings Direct will reflect on this and consider how they approach candidates from diverse backgrounds, particularly those with international experience and a different linguistic or cultural perspective.