However unlikely these circumstances may seem, it is the employer's goal to achieve as many of these circumstances as is possible through the interview/hiring process. This is why 'it's-not-what-you-know-but-who-you-know' in getting hired. This is the quickest and simplest way for the employer to be assured that he is minimizing his risk in hiring you--from what others know and say about you.
Your education and experience may get you the interview, but your soft skills will get you the job.
