I was recently contacted for a media interview that would center around a tap dancer from the older generation. I had knowledge of the person in question, and could have said yes, but there were at least two other people more suited for the opportunity. So, I made the referral.
Referrals are simply the right thing to do. For any opportunity, we should search for the one most suited. The person with the right skill set, knowledge, and connection with the topic. We find that person and give them the opportunity. If for whatever reason they can’t take it on, the opportunity will come back to us.
Our referrals have to be on point. No playing favorites. Get the right people for the job. Otherwise we’re just putting on an air of trying to do the right thing.
No. Find the best person, and do whatever you can to get them in.