… because I didn't have “tangible experience” in a skill I used there for almost 3 years and have portfolio proof of and my former manager attested to me having. Likely because I clammed up at a single quiz question to define a technical term I've rarely used in workplace conversation but could have easily explained with visual aid. Asked by non-technical person in a non-technical interview.
I would have posted this in r/recruitinghell but I am insulted enough about these types of things recurring at a systemic level that prevent people from being able to support themselves with work (out of necessity).
The reason I left that company in the first place was because of understaffing stress due to them being so picky about replacing my co-worker who they had forced to resign. They also sounded ready to pay me less than what I left there making. At least I don't have any doubts that I'm missing out anymore.