Hi, can you refer me to HR for the job, please?
Hi?
Hey, can you refer me to this job post?
Hello, can you please provide me a referral for the job in your company?
Are you messaging people on LinkedIn for referrals like these and failing to get it? Well then maybe you should read this and figure out what are the common mistakes you are committing when it comes to seeking a referral and how to make it right.
Before we get into how to, let’s talk about why is referral important with the help of stats
The #1 way people discover a new job is through a referral.
Companies can expand their talent pool by 10x by recruiting through their employees’ networks.
Candidates are 46 % more likely to accept InMail when they’re connected to your employees.
LinkedIn influenced hires are 2x more likely to be high demand and above-average hires.
Now that we know that it is a vital part of getting a job of your dream let’s see how to approach (can follow it stepwise too)
LinkedIn profile: — Your profile plays an important role. Before you click that send button go check if your profile is updated with all your information, experiences, and projects which can uplift your referral request. Updating the profile increase the visibility and thus, will help you to reach the next step.
Expanding the network: — connecting with relevant people is the basic step 1 to get the referral. Try to approach people when they are a part of your network. Once you are part of his network your message for referral brings more credibility.
Be meticulous: — Do not or just drop “HI” or indulge in the small talks rather introduce yourself and the objective of sending the message and why you want to get a referral. don’t expect him to be clairvoyant rather bring up things like experience, key specialize area, and most importantly how you find him to be helpful. Remember referrals greatly help job seekers get a call back compared to an application sent on its own thus it is crucial to keep the message precise.
Template: — Although every job/position requires a distinct tailor-made message but preparing an all job sample template beforehand is an effective technique. Once you have prepared a sample template keep customizing it according to the need. default template must have- name, CV, objective, why you want to join this company, and what value does his referral brings to the table.
Follow up:- once you’ve sent the message wait for him to reply back. Sometimes people don’t reply instantly and it takes around 5–6 days so wait is a good thing to do. Do not span his inbox rather politely follow back twice at most and if you still do get the reply back then contact the next best person for the same.
Be specific and polite. Happy job search!