Are you inferior if you're the best candidate for a job, but you don't have enough friends to get that job?

Answer 1

It's WHO you know and not WHAT you know. Sad but true! Better luck next time, but never inferior (especially when you think you are the best candidate). All you know, it could be a blessing in disguise - the next job you land might be a better one!

Answer 2

I think it's sad that "networking" is so necessary to land a decent job nowadays. It's sort of like a form of prostition really. Some may find that's a stretch, but there is definitely a compromise of professional integrity if the best candidate does not land the job.
Of course, you should consider the possibility of other factors as well. Maybe the other guy could work more flexibly, or had more relevant work experience, or maybe he just "knew a guy".
So to answer: No, it doesn't mean you're inferior. It just means you need to try harder. That probably sounds cold-hearted. But as sad as it may be, we must all survive in the world we live in. So be confident, and try, try, try again.