He said if the user didn't use factories for test data, it would be a huge red flag.
According to him, if I didn't setup a factory, when doing a take home assignment, then I'm not competent to write unit tests. I disagree.
So many people interview poorly. It's gotten worse every time I read about it. They're pushing away talent that way. I know people are stuck in their ways, but it's a bad idea unless you are are just looking for juniors and people desperate enough to go through that. I'm neither.
I mean don't people realize it's a seller's market?
All too well, my friend. That is why the employer is justified in asking for a demonstration of the ability to write good unit tests, as you have demonstrated by your own admission.