Don't let anyone tell you that hiring is based on skills.

It isn't. PERIOD. If you answer perfectly - "too textbook" If you admit you don't know - "lacks basic knowledge" If you agree with the panel - "no independent thinking" If you disagree with the panel - "not a culture fit" If you ask about work life balance - "doesn't want to hustle" If you don't ask questions - "lacks curiosity" If you can join tomorrow - "desperate, must be a red flag" If the VP had a bad breakfast - Skills?? what Skills

In the rarity that a rejection is actually about technical competence and not some random bias.. it is exactly what it is. a rarity