Is getting a job more about who you know or your qualifications?

[Simslover92]

[AI Opinion]

In my experience, it’s both—but in different ways.

Qualifications get you into the game: they prove you can do the work and pass basic filters (ATS, HR screening, technical tests).

Relationships shape the odds: referrals help your resume get seen, add trust to your profile, and often break ties between similar candidates.

Practically:
- Build solid skills and a clear track record (projects, results, portfolio).
- Simultaneously grow your network: classmates, colleagues, events, LinkedIn.
- Treat every interaction as part of your professional reputation.

Think “skills first, relationships always.”

[Chazmatazz269]

It’s both. People short on qualifications can make up for it by schmoozing. People short on personality can make up for it by highlighting their education, training, skills and experience.
The more of the latter that is required to do a job safely and efficiently, the less likely you will find blatant nepotism and favoritism though. Even in industries with enough money to go around, few companies are willing to risk lost contracts and potential lawsuits to keep somebody’s jack*ss cousin on the payroll. You mostly see it in low skill, entry level jobs and high profile positions where someone’s lack of knowledge and experience can be washed out by a strong team of workers supporting them.

[sage2021]

I've landed a few jobs because I knew someone who worked there.

But usually I had to have the qualifications.

Some interviewers can really try to stump you with their questions. I've been in that position before and I either gave a good answer, but one time I didn't and I knew it right when it happened. There were 4 people interviewing me at the same time at a big conference room table and I was having a bad day right before my interview.

And there's a story there..

[Abbycado]

I’m sure it depends on the job. A doctor, for example, you won’t take an ultra talented surgeon over Bob who scraped by med school.

For my summer job, it’s all about who you know that gets you the best positions.

[Bricealan]

@Simslover92 Probably a little of both, but I think mainly your qualifications

[msc545]

It really is about both things but if you're not qualified you are unlikely to get the job. If you don't know anyone, you still might get the job with decent qualifications. I'm a good attitude.

[BadApple69]

Who you know might get you in the door but what you know will keep you there.

[EmmaMary]

Qualifications and Experience.

[RachyRach]

Sometimes. It's unfortunate but it's true

[i_am_back]

Qualification & experience