322: Mislead an Employer for a Foot in the Door? | Feedback Friday

Job Interviews

Jordan Harbinger and Jason DeFillippo discuss a listener's dilemma about whether to disclose their lack of Italian fluency before a job interview. Jordan emphasizes the importance of honesty, noting that misleading the employer could backfire if fluency is a critical requirement. He explains that learning a language to a business proficiency level is a significant commitment and unlikely to be achieved quickly 1.

She needs to be aware here. She's a furniture buyer, so I'm guessing they're going to want her to go to Italy all the time and be on the phone speaking Italian all day.

--- Jordan Harbinger

Jordan suggests that if the job truly requires fluent Italian, the listener should be upfront about their current language skills and willingness to learn 2.

   

Professional Relationships

The hosts also address how to handle a strained relationship with a mentor. A listener shares their experience of a mentor turning cold after they decided to take a break from research for mental health reasons. Jordan advises having an open and honest conversation with the mentor to explain the situation and attempt to repair the relationship 3.

If someone's going to be petty for no reason and not let you explain yourself, then you're better off without them.

--- Jordan Harbinger

He also warns that asking for a recommendation letter from a disgruntled mentor could be risky and suggests finding alternative references if necessary 4.