Submitted by mnannini on
in
Forums
Hi,
I'm getting interview for a position in an organization. I have the possibility to meet with an employee of this organization prior to the interview. I'm confused because it seems this employee is a direct of the position I've applied to. I've the feeling it can be both in my favor or not.
Should I meet with this person ?
Thanks
What's the context of the meeting?
You say you have the possibility to meet someone in the organization, but what's the context of the meeting? Is this part of some actual process, or is it more like "Oh, I know someone who works there, maybe you should talk with him?"
flexiblefine
Houston, Texas, USA
DiSC: 1476
Yes it's "Oh, I know someone
Yes it's "Oh, I know someone that knows someone who works there, maybe I should talk with him?"
So nothing official or part of the hiring process plus the interviewed position seems to be overlooking at this "someone" !! ;-)
Yes, go for it!
This is a good chance to learn more about the company and the position. Go for it if you can!
It is unlikely that the team will participate in the hiring decision of their own manager, but even if they do, it does not hurt to know one of them.
Akos
Don't Fool Yourself
You should definitely go for it. However, there is a huge caveat. Official or not, treat this as part of the interview process. In fact, one piece of good advice I received early in my career is that you should treat EVERY interaction with a company or its employees as part of the interview process. This means, even if you aren't looking for a job, or if you run into those employees outside of the work environment, or you're the vendor and you've been doing business with them for years. It doesn't matter. The company can legitimately consider ALL of the interactions they've ever had with you during the interview process.
BariTony's advice is good
Excellent point about treating every interaction as if it's official -- you don't want some accidental turn of phrase to wreck your chances.
On the topic of the team participating in the hiring of their boss, it does happen. A friend of mine was part of a team interview a few years ago for her new boss.
So take the opportunity to learn what you can about the company, culture, position, etc. and don't be surprised if you see this person again during the process. Be careful, and listen well.
flexiblefine
Houston, Texas, USA
DiSC: 1476