Can we please stop this?

‘Hey, I got a new job. Would you like to leave a reference on LinkedIn?’ I get that question quite often. Some even add the adjective ‘good’ to it. Or they ask me to praise them to the heavens. Then you’re in a line of other people who all thought that person was amazing and fruity and fresh too. I’m not a fan of standing in lines.

Call me old-fashioned, but I don’t value those public feathers in someone else’s behind, because I know that not everything is what it seems. For example, a lawyer of a fired stylist once demanded a glowing reference from the CEO that shone at the top of her LinkedIn, where in reality she was never allowed to set foot in the building again. Or someone gives someone five stars just to get rid of them.

I’m still of the old-fashioned kind. You know, that type that calls someone to ask for a reference, without people peeking or eavesdropping. Just one-on-one so you can be honest. And maybe someone is worth five stars in one area, but totally unsuitable for another. Don’t put me in charge as a controller, that will definitely mean the end of your company.

Now that I’m at it: praising each other on Instagram I also find that something, how shall I put it, let’s call it ‘remarkable’. I understand that you want to give a friend two thumbs up in front of others. Leco supporting Sylvie when she’s going through tough times. I get it. Or just shining the spotlight on someone who is going to do something special. We all do that and it’s nice and thoughtful. But the line between being thoughtful and nice and showing off with your famous friends is a thin one, you know.

It goes something like this. Thanks @madonna for the fantastic evening in your wonderful place and let’s not forget @sting, you wonderful friend, what a special moment it was to see you strumming your guitar here in this intimate company and @jamieoliver, before I forget, our friendship goes way back but what a great meal you cooked again this evening and @jamiecullum, it was so special to see you here too, too bad @sophiedahl couldn’t be here but our lives are connected, we will never be without each other. In friendship and happiness forever. And then we throw in a little hashtag ‘blessed’ at the end and then it’s complete.

Then I want just two things: to tell those people that there is also such a thing as a postcard that you can personally send to someone to tell that person how dear they are to you and secondly, I would like a Rennie. Against those rising big gulps of acid.