Over the last 10 years in Rec2Rec, we’ve seen hundreds of recruiters follow previous bosses or colleagues into new companies.

For many, it’s been a brilliant move – the comfort of working with someone you trust, a fast start, and shared success.

But for others? It’s been a total disaster.

Often, candidates tell me they didn’t really do their due diligence because “my boss said it was great, so I trusted that.”

But here’s the thing:
What works for them doesn’t always work for you.

Your boss gets:

• Instant credibility
• A reliable hire in a tough market
• Someone who makes their life easier

But what do you get?

Key things to ask yourself before you follow:

• How long has your contact been at the new company?
  Are they still in the honeymoon phase, or do they truly understand the environment?
• Can you actually replicate what you had before or improve it?
  Same role, different company doesn’t always mean the same outcome.
• Are you inheriting baggage?
  If you’re walking into a rebuild, are you being rewarded for it, or are they expecting business as usual?
• What happens if your boss leaves or gets let go?
  Will you still want to be there? Will you be protected?

We’ve  seen plenty of success stories but almost every misstep came down to a lack of research.

So even if you’re tempted to say yes on the spot, slow down:

• Interview with other places
• Ask hard questions
• Do your homework

Nothing lost, but plenty gained.