1) You are saying too much. Saying stuff about looking for the best is obviously your purpose, so no need to say that. Now, you are left defending yourself about being Jerk. For somethings, it is best just to give the facts.
2) Why aren't you hiring developers from your network?
3) You should try to come off as "We are awesome, and we want you to be awesome too.", not "We are awesome and you are not".
1) You are saying too much. Saying stuff about looking for the best is obviously your purpose, so no need to say that. Now, you are left defending yourself about being Jerk. For somethings, it is best just to give the facts.
2) Why aren't you hiring developers from your network?
3) You should try to come off as "We are awesome, and we want you to be awesome too.", not "We are awesome and you are not".