u/Specialist_Grade_519

I saw a job posting that seemed to fit my background and experience. It asked for 4 years of experience, I have 8 years of experience. So cool, I applied to the position.

I also know someone internally so they were able to provide me with the email of the recruiter overseeing that role. So I also emailed the recruiter directly right after applying to the posting. I introduced myself and attached my resume to the email.

He (the recruiter) responded saying, the hiring manager is looking for someone with more experience, sorry.

REMINDER: I have 8 YOE, and the job posting is looking for 4 YOE.

I only go where I’m wanted so I did not debate it with the recruiter. I simply responded saying “I understand, thank you!”.

1 week later, the SAME RECRUITER emails me and said they saw my application and wanted to move forward to the next steps. I never mentioned the previous interaction we had but I ended up screening with him, interviewing with the hiring manager and making it to the final stage to a panel interview. Unfortunately I did not get the role.

But clearly if I made it to the last interview stage, I clearly am qualified so why did the recruiter even tell me I’m not qualified in the first place.

Maybe I’m crazy but to me it felt like he was basically saying only I can reach out to candidates. How dare you, as a candidate, try and reach out to me. Idk

For those who used to work at a CRO as a CRA but is no longer at a CRO and a CRA, what are you doing now?

Not interested in being a CRA anymore and being at a CRO anymore. Truth is IM TIIIIIREDDD

I’m at a CRO and I’m so stressed. I’m considering finding something else but I’m not sure what my options are.

For those of you who worked at a CRO and left, what are you doing now? What was your career trajectory? Does your salary compare?

Edit: I’m looking for answers that aren’t as obvious as working for a sponsor. What other options are there other than sponsor or site.