How to Get a Referral for a Job (Even if You Don’t Know Someone!)
Earlier this week, we shared strategies to avoid four mistakes job seekers commonly make when asking for a referral. Today, we’re sharing information on ways you can ask for that referral — even when you don’t have a direct contact.
- Need to get in touch with someone you know who knows someone associated with the job? Ask for the connection through LinkedIn. Ninety percent of recruiters using social media to find candidates use LinkedIn to do so, shouldn’t you use it to get recommended? Connect your LinkedIn account to StartWire and you can see your connections when you look at jobs –simply click “get referrals” and customize a personal postcard to be sent to your connections.
- Wave hello using social media. At StartWire, we’ve conducted over 25 interviews with senior recruiting leaders at Global organizations. One of the most common themes? Employers are interested in getting to know candidates via social media. Say hello on a Facebook company wall or through an @reply Tweet on Twitter and the employer has an impetus to get back to you. After all, you’ve just sent a public expression of interest – and it’s always polite to reply. Smile. You just shifted the balance of power in the hiring equation towards you.
- Go retro: Contact the hiring manager. Many organizations list jobs through their HR department. The HR department often makes the first review at applications.If you know who your boss would be — or can figure out who it might be — don’t be afraid to give them a quick call and let them know you’ve applied. A great way to do this? Do it at night — after everyone’s gone home. Leave a voice message saying, “Hi, this is _________. Wanted to let you know I’ve applied for ______ job. I have ___ years of related experience and am interested in joining in your team. You can reach me at ______ but I’ve completed my application with your HR department.”
Sometimes this act alone is enough to move you to the top of the pile — when the hiring manager says, “What about that guy.”
A final note: Apply for the job and follow-up – even if you have a referral.Here’s a secret not often shared: Employers can’t call you a candidate until you’ve submitted a formal application. If you get referred in, but haven’t formally applied – many HR offices may delay or hold up the process – until the paperwork is submitted. So go ahead and apply for the job, even if you’re assured it’s “just a formality.”
Make yourself easy to hire, and it will be easier for everyone to recommend you – and extend an offer.
