I was working with a Senior Sales Recruiter. After final round interviews I was asked to provide references, and I was elated. The same day I reached out to my references and put Fastly in touch with them. Early the next morning I was sent a generic email saying I would not be moving on to reference or offer stage, without any further explanation of what had changed, or any of my references having had a chance to speak with Fastly. My references all received emails saying “no further info is needed.” It was an absolute gut punch, and I felt completely disrespected and embarrassed that my references were a witness to my rejection. Companies have a right to proceed with whatever candidates they see fit, but there should be an understanding of the emotional toll it takes on a candidate to seemingly be lied to without explanation. Recruiting is a naturally slimy function, but I experienced another level of unprofessionalism with Fastly and this recruiter in particular. My advice: be 100% sure before communicating next steps to a candidate.