I had interviewed initially with a HR representative...this much younger person seemed to insinuate ageist remarks about "having energy" for the job. I overcame objections as this is not in my DNA, even if I am older than this person. I was passed along to the owner. After an outstanding interview and having told HR in my presence we would work out the details and I would be offered a plan I was happy with, things went dark. When I prodded about the details of the events, the owner made a reference to talking with my former employer and getting details of my separation which is both unethical and illegal. The concern was I that my standards were too high for the organization. My advice is to run in the opposite direction from an organization uninterested in employees with high standards who value continual improvement. HR has far too much power and far too little actual HR experience and understanding of how to attract and retain talent...I mean..it's rural Vermont!