When an employer is influenced in hiring a candidate based upon their connections, the employer is doing themselves a disservice. I have no problem with hiring people within your network if they have the experience that is required to get the job done. However, where the problem comes in at is when employers choose to “overlook” qualifications altogether and rely solely on a candidate’s connections. You don’t have to look very far to see examples of how embracing this type of thinking can backfire (i.e. public officials, large corporations, etc.).

I often wonder if the reason why many employers resort to using this tactic is because it will “relieve” them of the pressure of having to sort through resumes, profiles, etc. Regardless of how time consuming it may be, I believe that it is imperative that companies put forth the necessary effort to hire a qualified candidate.