So, I went through a 4-stage interview process, provided and set up meetings for them to contact my references, all while balancing a full workday and other interviews that I had already confirmed my attendance. For context this job is decent not great in regard to benefits or pay, some of the other interested companies have better pay and better benefits but I do like the “Small team” dynamic of this one and see a lot of potential for growth there.
Now, yesterday after describing to the benefits “off the top of their head” the CEO was like I need you to make a decision by Friday, I explained I have prior obligations and wouldn't be able to make a decision until the following Friday. They said that was unacceptable and that they'd need one by Wednesday, finally after more talking, I get them to agree to Thursday, while they were trying to make me feel bad for needing time to decide.
This morning I get an email that says more or less “We still have other candidates so this offer is only on the table until another one accepts.” This is before I've even received a written offer to review.
At this point, I feel like I have gone way above and beyond for this job, especially with other firms offering a much more generous salary after just 2 interviews, no references, and no background check from this crazy aggressive company (checkr, I've done one with them before, and it's clean, but they're just insanely aggressive and difficult to please).
Should I take all of this as a red flag and tell them to absolutely kick rocks? I wanted to have options on the table but at this point after everything I've gone through for these guys I'm honestly already frustrated with this company and seemingly have much better options on the table.