One thing I encounter, a lot, are people who either know someone higher up, or know someone who “used to work there”. Either one is an irrelevant piece if information to me, the evaluator. It doesnt matter if you know my boss (or bosses) or if you worked with my predecessor. If anything, it gives me pause that you are leading with that foot.
First of all, if you say that my boss is recommending you come to me with this. I know you are fibbing because my boss[es] always forward their recommended items to me directly. If they gave you my email or phone number to reach out directly, they are simply being polite and following proper protocols and things are supposed to go through me first regarding my department. If they truly are pushing for something, they will still forward to me for review but say that they are interested. Again, it still doesnt guarantee the job, it just shows me that they are interested. It really doesnt change my evaluation it just tells me that when it’s time to deliver the good/bad news, they will want a personal update. That’s it.
I’m sure the same is true in any other company and any other capacity. My position is not political so I have no obligations to anyone. My intent is solely for the best interest of my Tribe.
The second one, naming a predecessor and talking about how well you worked together is concerning. Do you know the terms in which the person left the company? Not likely. Because unless you are personal friends, most people will say they left of their own accord even if it’s not true. These people, unless retired, are no longer here for a reason. I will also question why your company stopped doing business with mine if you portray it to be nothing but beneficial.
Always start fresh with a company. If previous ties organically come up, let them; just dont go out of your way to force them.
Althea Frye 