[Opinion] Personnel Requests and Recommendations

During the Warring States Period in ancient China, Prince Ping Yuan of the Zhou Dynasty had thousands of shike, or guests fed by the powerful or the wealthy for future use. When the stronger Qin Dynasty invaded, he wanted to take 20 talented men in literary and military arts to the Chu Dynasty to ask for assistance. Mao Sui volunteered when the prince failed to fill all 20 spots. Pingyuan rejected the offer at first, saying, “If you are a truly talented person, you would have been like an awl in a bag, immediately standing out. But you failed to do so even though you have spent the past three years in my house.” Mao Sui didn’t flinch, saying, “That was because nobody allowed me to test my capability.” Pingyuan achieved his diplomatic goal thanks to Mao Sui, who became famous for his ability.

Hwang Hee, a state minister under King Sejong of Korea’s Joseon Dynasty, considered himself incompetent to serve the nation. Hwang’s resignation from his post, however, did not receive royal permission.

On the other hand, Chinese Emperor Tang Dezong wanted to offer an official post to a person who gave him fruit when he sought refuge during a civil war. The emperor faced a snag, however, when a civil servant protested the impetuous decision.

Finding a person of talent is a challenging job, whether in the public or private sector. Putting out a self-recommendation is not a problem if the most competent person can be found. What counts most is selecting the right person for a position. Though self-recommendation is one way to find a capable man, we must be wary of someone who insists he or she is well-qualified. No doubt that a person who employs connections with high-ranking officials or offer bribes to get a job is not qualified. Former President Roh Moo-hyun said anyone using political influence to get a promotion would be dealt with harshly. Unfortunately, his words were never kept.

We have to recognize appropriate personnel recommendations from the improper ones since they were made through legitimate proceedings. The National Agricultural Cooperative Federation is said to have sent warnings to 110 employees who tried to use outside connections to get promotions. The state-run organization said anyone committing irregularities will receive disadvantages in getting a promotion. Though questionable whether the measure can uproot the vicious practice, such an effort deserves acclaim. The new government has already seen three Cabinet nominees withdraw. It should learn the lesson that finding the right person for a post is the most important thing in administration.