Harnessing the Power of Referrals in Job Searches
Referrals are an amazing way to get access to job opportunities that you may not have known existed, or to get more information about a particular job offer - allowing you to keep ahead of your competition. When someone refers you for a particular role, they are vouching for your skills and experience, and this carries a lot of weight when it comes to your chances of success.
What are Referrals?
Put simply, referrals are when someone who knows you well puts in a good word for you to a potential employer. This could be a previous employer, coworker, teacher, professor, friend, or a family member. They will typically send an email mentioning your name and your experience, why you would be a great fit for the job, and providing a link to your online profile.
The Benefits of Referrals
The biggest benefit of having a referral when sending out a job application is that it puts your name in front of a potential employer before they even read your resume. Referrals also give you the chance to make a great first impression. Employers are more likely to take a closer look at someone who has already been recommended by someone they know.
Tips for Successful Referrals
Research your connections before asking them to refer you. Get to know them and find out what their line of work is, or the area they’re looking for a job in. Stay in touch and make sure they know how much you appreciate their help. Send a thank you note or take them out for coffee afterward. Offer to return the favor when you have the opportunity.
The Pros and Cons of Referrals
- Pros: Referrals can help you stand out from other applicants, give your resume a boost, allow you to make a great first impression, and potentially even connect you with the hiring manager.
- Cons: Not everyone you know will be willing to refer you, and there is no guarantee that a referral will get you the job.
How to Find Referrals
Professionally, your best bet for referrals may be people you’ve worked with in the past―colleagues, team members, or former employers. You can also ask friends and family, as well as teachers and professors. Be sure to be up front about what you’re asking for, and offer to return the favor when you have the opportunity. Do some research and look at the employer’s website to see who your referral contact should be.
Making the Most of a Referral
When you get a referral, make sure you capitalize on it. Follow up quickly and immediately take steps to make an impression. Reach out to the referral contact to thank them for their help and offer to provide any additional materials they may need. Offer to follow up with the hiring manager at an appropriate time to ensure that your application is still on their radar.
Conclusion
Successfully leveraging referrals in your job search can open up some amazing opportunities. When used correctly, they can be a great way to stand out, make a great first impression, and eventually land that job. Take the time to research, build relationships, and ask the right people for a referral. You never know what opportunities might arise.