In simple terms, the speaker is expressing disappointment that potential employers did not contact known references or former colleagues before hiring someone they knew well or who had previously worked with them. This basic step of verification allows a new employer to gain insight into an applicant's work history and character.
The deeper meaning of this statement touches on the importance of thorough vetting in professional settings. By failing to conduct reference checks, employers miss out on valuable information that can help assess a candidate’s reliability, past performance, and overall fit for the role. This oversight could lead to hiring decisions based solely on interviews or resumes without considering more nuanced perspectives from individuals who have firsthand knowledge of the candidate's capabilities. The statement also highlights the speaker’s awareness of their own value as a reference—someone whose opinion might be highly sought after in professional circles.
The quote is attributed to Ivanka Trump, an American businesswoman and public figure with significant influence in her industry. As part of a well-known family and having a background in real estate development and fashion design, she likely has extensive experience in hiring and evaluating talent for various projects and businesses. Her statement reflects her views on the importance of due diligence in professional relationships.
