Because it's considered very rude by normal people. For a hypothetical example: I've spent a day for your interview. I aced it. I was told there is somebody b

Because it's considered very rude by normal people. For a hypothetical example: I've spent a day for your interview. I aced it. I was told there is somebody better. I was then asked to waste more time in form or feedback. Same goes for references. In fact, from a real life example: My company needed an entry level technical writer. I referred them this kid with a fresh comp sci degree, eager for a job. Reviewing code: yay, he thought he made it. Got turned down because they wanted only a rockstar entry level, technical writer. Then chose to not get one. So, given everything, because I'm a polite person, I'd rather not answer than tell them they are delusional and rude.