This was my 2nd time applying to this same role, 1st was back when I was still schooling(no response from them), and the latest was just last month. For additional context, I'm currently working in the same role and industry, different company. This will become relevant later on. I attended the first interview F2F with the manager(amazing guy), and was offered the chance for a 2nd round with the director. At this point, I made sure to be clear about my minimum salary expectations, which is well within market rate. However, HR refused, stating that I was a 'fresh grad with not much working experience', and so I was offered the pay of a fresh grad. Remember earlier when I mentioned that I applied twice and only got a callback the 2nd time? I wonder what the difference is(hint: pay peanuts and you will only get monkeys, don't expect anything more). Nevertheless, HR persuaded me to join the 2nd round of interviews as the director was keen to meet. Once again, another great guy, had a great time talking to him. HR ghosted after 2nd time round. @HR, thanks for wasting 2 of my off days to attend 2 interviews, when you guys already know that you cannot afford the salary I'm asking for which is market rate(it is literally the first number that pops up when u google the average). @Higher management, please train your Human Resources team in the Human aspect.