I was recently interviewed by a company that has now told me that the position I applied for does not exist and will likely never exist in the future, but that they'd appreciate it if I could remain available in case they decide to implement the position in the future.
I had multiple phone interviews, had to drive 100+ miles each way, and spent 2 days at their facility interviewing with and shadowing various members of the team I would potentially be working with. When I left, I was told that they wanted me on their team and that they would be in touch soon.
Today I interviewed with a different company and got an amazing offer on the spot, but figured I'd do the right thing and at least give the first company a chance to make an offer before accepting, and the interviewers completely understood and said it was fine. That's when the first company came clean and let me know they weren't actually hiring.
In my case, I'm not too raw about it. After all, at the end of the day I got a great offer and will be accepting it first thing tomorrow morning. But like, what the fuck folks? You just casually have someone go way out of their way when you know damn well you're probably not hiring anyone? They covered the gas, hotel, and meals, so I'm not saying they're bad people or anything, but I can't help but feel like they knowingly wasted my time.
Thoughts?