A now-viral post on Threads has ignited heated debate after a screenshot of a job rejection email surfaced, revealing that a candidate was turned down—seemingly for asking questions about salary, responsibilities, and company culture during an interview.
Posted by user @pawel_tovarchuk, the image shows an email addressed to a candidate named Gavin. “We appreciate you taking the time to interview with us, but unfortunately we will be pursuing other candidates,” the email read. What caused the uproar was the following line: “For future reference, asking questions about salary, responsibilities, and work culture are not things we like to discuss during the interview process.”
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The post has since gained massive traction, with thousands weighing in on what many are calling a “red flag” from the company.
“This is a huge red flag from the company,” user @holy.contradiction commented. “Honestly, if these questions are considered out of line, what kind of candidates are you hoping to hire? Compliant, unquestioning, and easy to exploit?”
Another user, @tinlovescaffeine, who identifies as working in HR, didn’t mince words. “If a company does not wish to disclose salary range, scope of work and work culture, it’s a HUGE RED FLAG. Stay faaaaaar away. Transparency is important and it goes both ways.”
Others questioned the professionalism of the company’s stance. “That’s completely illogical and unprofessional for a company to say,” wrote @drew92s. “Salary, responsibilities, and work culture are fundamental to a job decision. Not discussing them makes no sense—they should be part of the interview process.”
Some users pointed out the irony of being expected to give time, energy, and personal details in an interview without receiving equally important information in return. “Please remember, when you go on an interview, it’s like a first date. You are sizing them up. Interview them back,” said @jungandready. “Don’t walk in there begging for their attention. Have a little dignity. You are going to spend most of your waking hours with these dipshits. You need to know what they have to offer.”
While a small number of commenters sided with the company, suggesting that salary questions are better reserved for later stages, the overwhelming sentiment on the thread leans toward the importance of open and honest conversations early in the hiring process.
“Why would salary be off the table?” @thestrategymethod asked. “Why waste time even interviewing if the salary isn’t where the candidate needs it to be?”
The controversy taps into a broader conversation about transparency, worker rights, and shifting power dynamics in the job market. As expectations evolve, so too does the hiring landscape—and companies that aren’t adapting may find themselves not just rejected by candidates, but publicly called out.
As @eldulfr put it succinctly: “Thank you for your reply confirming that your workers are underpaid and overworked in an abusive environment. I’m glad to have the opportunity not to work for you. Byeeeeeeeeeeeeee.”
