The heart of the matter

Priya is a medical laboratory scientist working in a busy city hospital. She has many years experience and has written several papers as well as developed some difficult diagnostic procedures. The laboratory is looking for a new head. The recruitment process has resulted in the short listing of three potential applicants for the position, including Priya.

Reference checks are made and telephone conversations take place with nominated referees. One of Priya's referees is Mark. Mark is a well known pathologist and holds Priya in high regard.

However, since Priya wrote this latest version of her CV, she has begun a relationship with Mark. Today there is a voice message on Mark's phone to call the HR department to discuss Priya's suitability to the role.

What should Mark do? He really does think she is the best person for the job and has admired her work for several years. He wonders if his personal life is really any one else's business or whether he should be up front and disclose their relationship. He would prefer to be open but he doesn't want to do anything that might affect her getting the job, or put their relationship in jeopardy. What do you think?