LinkedIn user calls out job seeker -- but post backfires
A LinkedIn user has drawn backlash after publicly criticising a job seeker who reached out shortly after connecting with him on the platform.
In his post, the user cautioned others against asking for a job immediately after connecting online.
He said people should not reach out within minutes just because the new contact happens to live in their "dream country," work at their "dream organisation," or look like their "future dream boss".
He also posted screenshots of what appeared to be a private message and ended the post with a remark suggesting he "owed a public apology" to the person for "wasting his time".
Unfortunately, what was probably intended to be a learning moment did not go down well with other users on the platform.
Stomper Juliet alerted Stomp to the post and said: "You might want to look at this post on LinkedIn where this moron is actively bullying and still too genius to realise he is an idiot."
Several users agreed with the Stomper, with one saying: "So this person now has to see their private DM made public? Your goal is to humiliate and shame people for asking for help? I'm tired of seeing these cold, inhumane posts here."
Another said: "It doesn't cost anything to be kind and respond with empathy, you know?"
Others called for compassion towards job seekers.
"Please be kind," a LinkedIn user wrote. "It takes courage to reach out for a job. Publicly shaming someone seems harsh - we don't know his story. The world is already cruel enough."
Some, however, agreed with the original poster's frustration, noting that unsolicited job requests can be inappropriate.
"I've had people ask for jobs right after connecting," one shared. "I immediately regret clicking accept."
Another added that such messages are common but should be handled politely: "As a leader, it may be better to just direct them to HR and wish them luck - you don't have to be crass either."
Where should the line be drawn between assertiveness and respect when reaching out for career opportunities?
