A friend of mine is the CEO of his own small business. We’re not very close friends, but we know each other well enough to have visited each other’s houses for dinner and drinks a few times.
His business is advertising a role which interests me. I have suitable skills for this role but limited experience, so it’s likely to get better candidates than I – at least on paper. It is reporting to one of his subordinates, and I have no idea how much (if any) input my friend might have into the recruiting process.
I would like to apply for this job but I don’t want to cause problems for my friend, nor to have our friendship unduly influence the recruiting process. I have not yet spoken to my friend about it because doing so would certainly result in the latter outcome.
They work in quite a small office. There is a strong chance that, were I to manage to get to the interview stage anonymously, my friend would see me when I arrived. But I also know he’s out of the office a lot.
How should I proceed? I am happy to consider that “not proceeding” may be the best course of action here, especially given that I may well not get the job.
When applying for a job at a company owned by a friend, it’s important to maintain professionalism and treat the application process as you would with any other job opportunity.
First, reach out to your friend to express your interest in the position and ask for any advice or guidance on the application process. Be transparent about your intentions and ensure that your friend is comfortable with you applying for a job at their company.
Next, tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant skills and experience that align with the job requirements. Emphasize how your qualifications make you a strong candidate for the position.
During the interview process, approach it with the same level of preparation and professionalism as you would for any other job interview. Be honest about your relationship with the owner of the company, but focus on showcasing your qualifications and why you are the best fit for the role.
Ultimately, the key is to strike a balance between leveraging your connection with the owner of the company and demonstrating your qualifications and suitability for the job. By approaching the application process with professionalism and integrity, you can increase your chances of securing a job at a company owned by a friend.