I applied for a job as a Front Office supervisor and I made it to the final interview. Today I received a call from the HR saying the other candidate was more qualified than me but Im a better option for them budget-wise. He told me that he'd hire me if I could go lower on my expected salary and he said he wants to give me another chance because he enjoyed talking with me during the interview.
I did respond nicely and told him I can't go any lower because of my living costs and transportations and thank u for giving me an offer but I cant.
He responded by saying call him back if I changed my mind and he'll hold the position for until next week Monday for me.
I didnt say anything to him but I feel slightly offended. I would've considered taking the job if he didnt say I was a budget option. Theyre also a very famous hotel chain so I didnt know theyd go for budget option than a qualified person.
But Im wondering if HRs are allowed to disclose information (their expected salary, work experiences) about other candidates to another candidate. Because it just all seems a little off
Update: after a day of thinking whether I asked too much for my salary or whether im even qualified for the job from that phone call, i think i shouldnt let it affect my self confidence anymore. Im grateful to everyone who responded and telling me it was a common tactic they use and there might not even be another person, i feel much better about myself and ill move on and find a better job. Thank u all