Claudia Help!

I have noticed more and more candidates blurring the lines of business and social networking online. Here’s a recent example that almost caused me to lose a client: one of my candidates sent a LinkedIn request to a hiring manager before her interview. Both the HM and I thought that was odd, but we thought it was just over-enthusiasm. She didn’t stop there though; she invited the CEO to connect as well, this time using very familiar language in the email as if they were long-lost BFFs. She even complimented his picture (that’s right, “I like your pic”), like she was hitting on a complete stranger who just happened to run the company she wants a job at.

Could it get worse? Oh, but of course. When I confronted her about the behavior she not only defended it but sent flaming emails to the HM and CEO, and copied me with pride. I sat there reading with my mouth wide open in horror. Needless to say, I am struggling to regain the confidence of my client (rightfully so) and wondering how I went so wrong with this candidate.

How do you handle people who don’t get the difference between personal and professional social networking?

Weary Networker


Dear Weary,

Ok, I’m going to sound like my first recruiting boss for a moment. When exactly did you lose control of this situation? It was long before you fired the candidate (which you were perfectly justified in doing), and much earlier than the first inappropriate email. Remember the cardinal rule in recruiting? That which I anticipate I can control. This one caught you off guard; the next time (and there will be a next time my friend, because we’re always tested on the important stuff in life) you’ll recognize the warning signs and shut ‘er down before damage control is required...


Read the rest of my response and add comments of your own here...


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In my day job, I’m the Head of Products for Improved Experience, where we help employers use feedback to measure and manage competitive advantage in hiring and retention. Learn more about us here.

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