I was contacted by a recruiter because I was in their system from a job I applied for about a year prior. We had a phone interview that went a lot longer than either of us planned.
Afterwards I sent an updated resume and tailored cover letter to her, and she forwarded it to the hiring manager. I was not actively looking for a job, but the Living Atlas product is amazing, so I was definitely interested in the position.
A few weeks went by and she sent emails with status updates regularly.
Then she asked for another phone call, and in that call she explained that they promoted someone from within to fill the role. I told her that while I really wanted that position, I have to respect the fact that they look after their employees.
It was a real bummer because I wanted that position. Even though the outcome is not what I wanted, I have to say that this recruiter was one of the most respectful recruiters I have been in contact with, and they seem like a great company!