I was told I had a job pending a background check and references on Friday.

Phantom job offers are everywhere at the moment.

Works like this.

On the flimsiest of discussions. Probably by text.
A junior office Manager has a conversation with an Area Manager, during which the A.M. will say he wants to increase some aspect of the office Manager 's department.

Office Manager says he's extremely busy but could see the 'creation of a role'....
Area Manager says draw up plans.
Advertise on the quiet.
Compile a list of potential candidates.
Interview.
But promise nothing.

Weeks go by but Area Manager still hasn't committed salary nor even issued letter offering employment.
Yet several of those interviewed say they were told they had the job they were just awaiting confirmation....

All this just so junior and middle-management can conspire to make it seem both are essential to the company that employs THEM