04/05/2026
Dear Employers, Hiring Managers, and Relevant Authorities,
We were consistently told that education is the key to success. Many of us pursued higher qualifications in the belief that they would open doors to meaningful employment. However, it has become evident that personal connections often matter far more than academic credentials.
In practice, candidates are frequently evaluated not on merit alone, but on whether they know someone within the organization. During the recruitment process, human resources teams and hiring managers commonly consult existing staff to determine if an applicant has been recommended internally. Without such endorsement, even well qualified candidates are often overlooked.
As a hardworking young professional striving to support my family, I find this situation deeply concerning. When job opportunities arise, applicants invest significant resources including printing costs, transportation, and appropriate attire to attend interviews. Regrettably, many of these interviews are conducted for positions that have already been filled. In some cases, the selected candidate even participates in the interview panel. This practice not only wastes candidates’ time and limited resources but also undermines trust in the recruitment process.
I respectfully urge employers and hiring managers to refrain from advertising positions and inviting candidates for interviews when the role has already been allocated. Hiring suitable individuals directly would prevent unnecessary expense and disappointment for the many job seekers who respond in good faith.
A more transparent and merit based approach to recruitment would benefit both organizations and the wider community.
