I progressed to the technical interview after passing the HR stage. The technical interview was conducted online with the CTO and a Project Manager. During the portfolio presentation, I was repeatedly interrupted by both interviewers and was not given the opportunity to properly explain my work. Despite clearly stating that some projects were conceptual case studies and that my professional work is protected by NDAs (which is very common in this field), this was continuously dismissed. At one point, the CTO opened the website of my current employer during the interview and made humiliating and dismissive comments, questioning its quality and whether the company “even makes money.” This continued despite me clearly explaining that I am not the owner, -just an employee- and I did not design the website, and that I simply work within the scope defined to me. I was told that with my portfolio I would “not be able to do anything” in such a competitive market. Although this was framed as “advice,” it was delivered in an arrogant and demeaning manner. The IT Project Manager made also a dismissive comment, saying they were looking for someone they could trust (?), implying that I was not suitable. The tone was belittling and unprofessional, especially for a junior-level interview.
Such an attitude is unacceptable and felt more like a display of power than a professionalisim. Being in a management team does not automatically equate to professionalism. The purpose of a technical interview is to assess whether a candidate is suitable for the role, and the outcome can be also negative. However, even in such a case, it is not ethical to interrupt or disrespect the candidate during the process. I value honest and direct feedback, but this experience lacked basic professional respect and psychological safety. Considering this experience, I am glad that I am not working at this company.