I recently applied for a freelance role after a recruiter contacted me through LinkedIn. In today’s job market, where so many people are out of work, I appreciated the quick response and moved forward with the interview process. After my initial interview, I was scheduled with a manager and asked to complete an assessment that took over an hour. Before the manager interview, additional recruiters reached out saying they had “heard good things” about me and requested references — including LinkedIn profiles — before any offer or even a final interview. I completed the interview and provided the requested information. After that, communication stopped. I followed up a week later, then again three days after that, and was told the recruiter was busy and that they were still interviewing. My last communication from them was July 1st, and despite another follow‑up, I never received a response or closure. This entire process began on June 13th. Based on the experience, it felt as though the company was more interested in collecting my contacts and network than genuinely considering me for the role. Any company that “prides itself on having a network of 10,000+ freelancers” should not be asking candidates for references — especially LinkedIn profiles — before a solid offer or at least a confirmed finalist stage. Advice to candidates: Do not provide references or your professional network until you have a confirmed offer or are clearly in the final stages. Protect your contacts and your time.