Job hunting often comes with unexpected turns, and one such incident shared on Reddit left thousands both laughing and shaking their heads. Posting on the subreddit r/ Interviews, a user narrated how a routine job application ended in one of the most bizarre follow-ups imaginable.
The Redditor explained that during the previous fall, they were actively looking for work when they found what seemed like a perfect position. After enduring six grueling weeks of interviews spread across multiple rounds, they eventually learned that the company had selected another candidate. Disappointed but accepting the outcome, they moved on—until a surprising email landed in their inbox months later.
The Unexpected Email
The message came from none other than the person who had been hired for the job. The new employee reached out asking for the Redditor’s professional opinion on a new company project and requested that they share some useful industry contacts. The user described being completely taken aback — the same organization that had rejected them was now casually seeking free advice. They found it strange and somewhat disrespectful that after being overlooked, they were being asked to contribute to the company’s initiatives without any form of compensation.
Instead of ignoring the message, the Redditor decided to turn the situation around. They responded with a short but clever email that included a consulting invoice, specifying their hourly rate and noting that they would be happy to assist once officially hired as a consultant. Though they doubted they would ever receive a reply, they took satisfaction in asserting the value of their expertise.
Online Reactions and Shared Experiences
The post quickly gained traction, with users across Reddit praising the move. Many found the story hilarious and applauded the Redditor for handling the situation professionally yet humorously. Others chimed in with similar stories of companies seeking free labor or post-layoff “brain-picking” sessions. One user even joked that the best response to such requests should always include a payment clause.
The thread became a lighthearted reminder that self-worth matters—especially in a tough job market overflowing with layoffs and limited opportunities.
The Redditor explained that during the previous fall, they were actively looking for work when they found what seemed like a perfect position. After enduring six grueling weeks of interviews spread across multiple rounds, they eventually learned that the company had selected another candidate. Disappointed but accepting the outcome, they moved on—until a surprising email landed in their inbox months later.
The Unexpected Email
The message came from none other than the person who had been hired for the job. The new employee reached out asking for the Redditor’s professional opinion on a new company project and requested that they share some useful industry contacts. The user described being completely taken aback — the same organization that had rejected them was now casually seeking free advice. They found it strange and somewhat disrespectful that after being overlooked, they were being asked to contribute to the company’s initiatives without any form of compensation.
Instead of ignoring the message, the Redditor decided to turn the situation around. They responded with a short but clever email that included a consulting invoice, specifying their hourly rate and noting that they would be happy to assist once officially hired as a consultant. Though they doubted they would ever receive a reply, they took satisfaction in asserting the value of their expertise.
Online Reactions and Shared Experiences
The post quickly gained traction, with users across Reddit praising the move. Many found the story hilarious and applauded the Redditor for handling the situation professionally yet humorously. Others chimed in with similar stories of companies seeking free labor or post-layoff “brain-picking” sessions. One user even joked that the best response to such requests should always include a payment clause.
The thread became a lighthearted reminder that self-worth matters—especially in a tough job market overflowing with layoffs and limited opportunities.
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