Pieapple, how is not attending an interview 'downright disrespectful'? It could only be considered disrespectful if the potential employer paid travel costs for shortlisted candidates to attend the interview. As if.....
In the good old days, such 'respect' was typically accorded potential employees. Companies were just as keen to create a good impression as were the candidates. Many of my generation never paid to attend an interview. Because they were paying, companies were quite diligent in preparing their shortlists, so at worst if you got to the interview you had a better than even chance of getting the job. Now it seems they run rough shod over young guys and gals, just because they can.
Respect should be mutual.