Had my 3rd interview over the course of 2 months for a job requiring my bachelor's in finance. I aced all the interviews and got to the final portion of the 3rd interview where I asked the salary range for the job. “Sorry, we can't tell you that, it's confidential and could damage us if it got into the hands of our competitors. I'm sure you understand. What is a figure you'd be comfortable with?” I was somewhat stunned, and given that this is a 60-hour-a-week job, I responded that I'd like $60K/yr. Immediately, the interviewer's face turned sour and she said that won't be doable. I said that's fine and that I'd take $50K/yr and just want to finally secure a job after graduation. “That's in line with our range, but the problem is, you already gave your number, and you can't take that back. I can tell this won't work out, so we're going to be pursuing other candidates at this time, thank you so much for coming.”
WHAT IS THE POINT OF THIS GUESSING GAME FROM HELL?! Every interviewer acknowledged I would do the job wonderfully and I'd be the ideal candidate, including her. Why do they do this “guess the number” game from the pits of Tartarus?