I applied for the position online and was subsequently contacted by a recruiter for an initial screening discussion. During that conversation, the recruiter shared the compensation range for the role. I communicated my expected salary range along with the rationale behind my expectations. The recruiter indicated that they would discuss the matter internally and follow up. A few days later, I was informed that the company was willing to be flexible for the right candidate, and three rounds of interviews were scheduled. I genuinely enjoyed my interactions with the interview panel and found the interview experience itself to be engaging and positive. However, I was disappointed when the final offer was presented, as the compensation was below the salary expectations I had clearly communicated at the outset of the process. Had I been informed earlier that the compensation range was fixed and not open to negotiation, I would have been able to make a more informed decision about whether to proceed. The lack of alignment between the compensation discussions and the final offer resulted in a significant investment of time and effort over the course of approximately three weeks, including interview preparation and participation. Greater transparency regarding compensation expectations from the beginning would have helped avoid this outcome and would have contributed to a more positive candidate experience.