connection-based selectees
[kə-ˈnek-shən-ˈbāst sə-ˈlek-ˌtēz]
nounpl: connection-based selectees
candidatos selecionados por conexões
1. Individuals chosen or appointed to a position, opportunity, or program primarily based on personal connections, relationships, or social networks rather than merit or qualifications
The scholarship program was criticized for selecting connection-based selectees instead of the most qualified applicants.
O programa de bolsas foi criticado por selecionar candidatos selecionados por conexões em vez dos candidatos mais qualificados.
2. People selected through nepotism, favoritism, or access to influential networks
Connection-based selectees often advance faster in organizations with poor merit-based systems.
Os candidatos selecionados por conexões frequentemente avançam mais rapidamente em organizações com sistemas fracos baseados em mérito.
This term is particularly relevant in discussions about social inequality in both the USA and Brazil. In Brazil, the concept of 'apadrinhamento' (having a godfather/patron) has deep historical and cultural roots, particularly reflecting colonial legacy and hierarchical social structures. In the USA, it relates to broader critiques of 'cronyism' and meritocratic ideals. The term is increasingly used in academic and journalistic contexts when discussing corruption, inequality, and fairness in hiring and selection processes.
NYC Slang
people who got the gig through their connections; connected insiders; the well-connected crowd
Related Idioms & Phrases
it's not what you know, it's who you know
pulling strings
having an in
scratching someone's back
old boys' network
jogo de cintura (Brazilian: political maneuvering through connections)
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