I applied online for a manager position, in addition to being referred by several employees. During the initial screening the recruiter asked me why I picked that particular position and not the engineering position in that same team. I answered that I'm meeting or exceeding all the requirements in the job description for the manager, so I decided to apply for that position. He proceeded to tell me that this job might not be available anymore, because there might be an internal candidate being promoted into the role shortly, my role would be more of a lead position, but the hiring manager would know more. I proceeded to the hiring manager interview and asked about the situation when given the opportunity to ask questions. The hiring manager explained that I would start as an individual contributor, because he doesn't put external hires into manager positions. He'd rather see who from the team is the best candidate for the position and then promote that person into the manager role. I understand the reasoning, but then why would you post the manager position at all? This appears to be a bait and switch tactic, and apparently I'm not the only one who has had that experience (see review from late March this year).