Is It What or WHO You Know That Matters?

Is it really just about who you know?

This has been a fairly common question since the beginning of the employer-employee arrangement.   As far back as Cain and Abel I'm pretty sure.

I think it goes without saying that most of us would fall on the side of who you know being more important due to the shear volume of  times we've all been turned down for a job without a referral and how many times we've gotten a job resulting from a referral.  My guess is most of you are in jobs right now that you got because you were referred by someone you know.

I've decided to weigh in on this subject based on my years of experience in recruiting and helping folks find jobs.  Who you know can help you get a job interview, but what you know is what will ultimately lead to you getting hired.  There are instances when someone is hired strictly based on who they know, but in my opinion that represents a relatively low number.  Want to know why?  Well read on!


In most instances, one of the biggest concerns employers have is getting the most productivity out of everyone they hire.  After all, payroll is a major expense for most businesses so their goal is to keep those costs as low as possible.  One way to do that is to make sure you're hiring the right person for each job.

Who you know does matter, too though, don't get me wrong.  According to Undercover Recruiter 40% of new hires come from referrals.  That being said, if you aren't the right fit for the job or lack the right experience or qualifications for the position, you most likely won't get past the first interview if you even get that far!

This might sound discouraging, but don't let it be.  Why would you want a job you and/or your employer know you can't do?  This will only lead to poor performance, job dissatisfaction and eventual termination whether voluntary or involuntary.

While your best friend's roommate might be able to help you get your foot in the door, it us up to you to prove to the employer that they aren't doing you a favor by interviewing you.  You want that to be the other way around!

Godspeed Job Seekers!
-Oz