Using "connections" to speed up application time

[jspear]

Hello,

Firstly, I happen to know a general in the CF, and I am wondering if I should ask him if he could by any chance speed up my application time (to the Infantry reserves). He said that he had the power to stop my application, so I am assuming that he might also be able to quicken the proses, if he were so inclined to do so. So my question is, should I ask him? Or will it look badly on me since it might look like I am trying to use my connection to get ahead.

 

 

[Michael OLeary]

So my question is, should I ask him?

NO.

 

[Alea]

Hello,

Firstly, I happen to know a general in the CF, and I am wondering if I should ask him if he could by any chance speed up my application time (to the Infantry reserves). He said that he had the power to stop my application, so I am assuming that he might also be able to quicken the proses, if he were so inclined to do so. So my question is, should I ask him? Or will it look badly on me since it might look like I am trying to use my connection to get ahead.

Hello jspear,

If you know him personally, I would assume you should have the answer to your question no? I mean, if you know him well enough, then you should know which way your "special request" may be taken. How can anyone else tell you what is appropriate or not to be done in this case??

As per "would it look badly on me"... hummm... what do you think??

My 2cents.

Alea

 

[Michael OLeary]

It is NOT a question about how he might take the request. It is not appropriate for you to ask for such a favour, nor is it appropriate him to be influencing your application.

Even if he does try it, ask yourself, - do you want to be the guy in the unit that was recruited because some general leaned on your Commanding Officer (no matter how nicely it gets worded)?

 

[the 48th regulator]

I say go for it.

During the final period of the Roman Empire, certain modern historians claim that Nepotism was the actual cause for the fall of the Empire.  I say it actually strengthened it.

I would not bother listening to the other two Posters, and call that General up right now.  In fact, I would not be surprised if your relationship flourishes because of your gumption, and produces a stronger relationship where he can help  you again and again in your future with the CF.

Who knows, one day he may come calling for a favour, and you are able to repay.  See how it all works out in the end?

Again, I say use the General, and get yourself in, pronto!  We need you!

dileas

tess

 

[Michael OLeary]

Received by PM from Alea who felt her response above required further clarification:

Hello,

After reading Michael's answer, I felt that mine might not have been clear enough so let me add that if you're asking yourself the question as to "would this reflect badly on me" it could very well be that you already know the answer to your question. So here it goes: Yes, it would reflect badly on you.

Asking advices to your military surroundings is one thing... asking for special treatment in order to go in front of everyone else who has to respect the process, time waiting etc... is another. And you're asking this question on a forum onto which 90% of posters are military personnel from all ranks. This is already reflecting bad on you.
If you have what it takes, if the CF declares you fit and ready to be part of it... then shouldn't it be done with the pride of telling yourself that you deserved it (and worked for it) and not because you know a General??

Again, my 2cents.

Alea