But money is an issue for them. No matter what you bring to the table it takes time and resources on their part to get you integrated into the company. You im

But money is an issue for them. No matter what you bring to the table it takes time and resources on their part to get you integrated into the company. You impose a liability of sorts on the company just by showing up. Ideally, your contribution outweighs that liability and it's a net gain for everyone. Working for free or a reduced rate can be a good strategy to get in the door, I've used it and advocated for it in the past on comments here. However, there still needs to be a bona-fide position and job you're fulfilling, otherwise you're ultimately just some guy hanging out and getting in the way. I'm neither satisfied nor dissatisfied with your story. What I was pointing out is that it's not a unique experience. It happens to lots of people all the time, the underlying intent of my statement being don't get discouraged by it or dwell on it.