I wanted to take a moment to reflect on my recent interview experience for the Onboarding Specialist position at FlexTrade.
After successfully completing the second-stage technical interview with the team manager, which focused on FIX connectivity and platform-related questions, I was invited to the third and final round. The first part of this stage was a 30-minute interview with an interim Client Relations Manager.
From the start of the conversation, I sensed a change in tone and body language. After the usual opening questions, he raised concerns about my mention of completing a development bootcamp to deepen my Python skills. He remarked, "We’re not looking for someone to learn here," to which I responded by clarifying that my knowledge in Python is already well-developed and would complement the onboarding function, especially in areas such as automation, diagnostics, and log analysis.
The next question concerned the most common issue encountered when onboarding Tier 1 banks. I drew on over a decade of experience to discuss challenges around custom specifications and occasional project delays. However, he dismissed my answer and stated, “We’re not going anywhere with this,” before giving his own answer: that Tier 1 banks often lack liquidity in their test environments. He even referenced a well-known Tier 1 institution by name, which surprised me. I worked at that very institution for over a year and had never encountered or heard of this being a key issue, especially from the team managing test environments.
Shortly after, the interviewer abruptly ended the session, stating he had to join another meeting, and left the room. I then continued with the second part of the interview, which I felt went well and focused on practical questions around FIX protocol, connectivity, and platform onboarding.
However, when it came time for the final HR conversation, I was informed by the receptionist that HR was in a meeting and would follow up later. The following day, I received an email stating that FlexTrade would not be proceeding with my application.
I respect a company's decision not to move forward with a candidate, but the tone and conduct during part of the interview left me feeling deeply uncomfortable. It did not reflect the values I associate with FlexTrade. As someone with many years of relevant experience, including with Tier 1 banks, I was surprised by the dismissive and, frankly, discouraging attitude I encountered. If this is not an example of unconscious bias or discrimination, I am not sure what else could explain the treatment I received.
FlexTrade has always had a strong reputation in my eyes, which is why I was enthusiastic about the opportunity. It’s unfortunate that my final experience did not align with those expectations.