Cyber_Ronin22's journey

I recently went through an exhausting job application process for a mid-level marketing role at a company that initially seemed promising. After four rounds of interviews, including a recruiter screening and two interviews with the hiring manager and team, I felt confident about my chances. They praised my background and said I was a perfect fit. Then came the kicker: I was asked to complete a 'brief practical assignment' which turned out to be a full marketing strategy plan for one of their upcoming campaigns. I dedicated an entire weekend—about ten hours—crafting this detailed plan, and during my fourth interview, the director even smiled and complimented my work as outstanding. However, today I received a generic rejection email stating they had decided to move forward with other candidates. No feedback, no personal touch, just a cold template. It feels incredibly disheartening, especially considering the effort I put in. I can’t help but wonder if they even had a real opening or if they just wanted my ideas for free. This whole experience has left me feeling frustrated and questioning the integrity of the job market. Has anyone else faced something similar? It really feels like a scam.