[Paul-Craft]

I'm not saying your family friend has done this, but I've seen people "refer" others to their company, then deliberately tank the candidacy because they didn't believe in the candidate's skills.

[tetris11]

I would buy this, and even take it as a valid criticism, if he left with a lie like "... but there aren't any open spots right now" or "...it's out of my hands".

But he left with the promise of a reply. It just seems heartless, especially since I will see him again soon at another family function.

[Paul-Craft]

Have you spoken to him since he promised to refer you? If not, you could probably clear all this up with a 10 minute phone conversation.