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Anonymous
02/21/20 at 9:22PM UTC
in
Career

Competing for same job as previous employee

My company had around 500 people laid off last week with a large number of us in the same type of job function. Luckily there's a good industry for it in our city, but I just discovered that my previous employee and I are both being inteviewed for the same position (there may be more, but this position hasn't yet been published, we just both happen to each know people at the company who told us). I would love advice on how to handle this. We are both being open about it and won't have hurt feelings, but it's a small company and I'm not sure if it would come up in the interview process. I mean it would seem sort of unprofessional for them to mention they were interviewing someone who worked for me, but if they do what should I say? I would highly recommend him otherwise, but I obviously want the job ;)

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Jackie Ghedine
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5.71k
Coach for Gen X Women | Jack Russell of Humans
02/25/20 at 1:23PM UTC
If they ask about the other candidate, it won't be direct. It may be more like, what separates you from the rest of the people I'm interviewing. The key is to know YOUR worth, know what YOU bring to the table and how bringing YOU on board will benefit the company. It is never about the other candidate. They might hire him anyway because he's 'cheaper' since he's moving up. You have no idea what and why people hire so all you can do is prove you're an amazing fit.
Annetta Moses
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1.31k
Consumer Insights and Strategy Leader
02/24/20 at 4:51AM UTC
I don't believe that they will ask you about another candidate while you are being considered for a position. Do you best to prepare for the interview. Remember the STAR format for answering questions and have "R" results that show you impacted the business. If they do ask about the person who worked for you, I agree with GirlAndy. You should be honest and objectively provide feedback out the employee. For example, she was a solid employee that satisfied the requirements of the position. Good luck seeking a new position.
Jackie Ruka
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2.07k
ProfessionalHappyologist Thrive in your purpose.
02/23/20 at 8:05AM UTC
I have been in this position and honestly, they are well aware of who is who and also know there are only so few openings than people to fit. You are the safe bet for the position being you have more tenure but that does not mean it's a slam dunk. be prepared with a list of your achievements and why you are the best fit and ready to start straight away.
ShellyB
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607
Passionate about equality for all at work!
02/22/20 at 4:19AM UTC
JUST LET THEM KNOW YOU WANT IT!
ANDREA HERRERA
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508
Human Resources Leader living in NYC
02/21/20 at 10:18PM UTC
I'd be honest with the hiring manager/human resources representative and just let them know. I'd frame it just like you did - he's great, but I really want the role - only 3 scenarios. 1. You get it and he doesn't, you'll feel good that you said nice things about him 2. He gets it and you don't, you'll feel good that you said nice things about him AND the company will remember your integrity and honesty (new opportunitites come along all the time); or 3. Neither of you gets the position and... you'll feel good that you said nice things about him. and Best of Luck!
Anonymous
02/21/20 at 10:06PM UTC
It's actually him who is looking to move up. The position is a lateral for me, and I had only been in the role about 8 months. He is probably right on the edge of qualified from a work perspective, though I have been in the industry longer. I'm more qualified but he really is great....so I'm not really concerned that we're going for the same thing in this case, especially since I'm personally not shooting too low.
Anonymous
02/21/20 at 10:12PM UTC
Ok that makes sense. Who does he intend to list as his reference if not his most recent direct manager? It’s going to come up at some point. I haven’t personally navigated through something like this but if they ask did you know him, then yes be honest and say you were his direct manager. If they ask for feedback, say I’m not sure that’s appropriate since I’m also under consideration.
ShellyB
star-svg
607
Passionate about equality for all at work!
02/22/20 at 4:18AM UTC
You are very kind and offer sound and selfless advice!
Anonymous
02/21/20 at 9:52PM UTC
Honestly my first reaction is that you’re shooting too low if you and your former direct report are applying to the same role. You should be seeking out more senior roles then.

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