To wasta, or not to wasta?

To wasta, or not to wasta?

There are times when you should call on your connections, and times when you definitely should not. Here’s when you should let your credentials stand on their own two feet.

August 5, 2010 4:40 by Katherine Azmeh

3. “Do not trash your last employer or industry. This might be tempting to do…but it is never a good idea. “ Disgruntled talk sounds bitter, not professional. Better to skip it.

4. Maintain your equal footing with potential career connections. “Appearing too insecure, needy, or desperate could change your connection and friendship [and]… might diminish you somehow.” Never use guilt to obtain career help from a friend. If the connection is going to be truly effective, it won’t be necessary, anyway.

5. A connection is a great resource, but don’t expect him or her to be more than just a “starting point,” experts advise. Do your homework and come prepared. Ultimately, you’ll have to prove yourself as the best candidate for the job.

6. And finally, “don’t force the issue,” say experts. A friend’s reluctance to help is the best indicator that it probably isn’t a good idea.

Pages: 1 2

Tags: career help, connections, employment, influence, pull, unemployment, us news and world report, wasta, when not to use wasta