Why are referral messages important?
Referral messages are an important part of the job search and application process. A referral message is when someone within a company recommends a candidate for an open position. Referrals can give candidates a significant advantage during the hiring process, as they come with a built-in endorsement from a current employee.
According to research, referrals are one of the top sources of hires for companies. Referred candidates are more likely to be interviewed and hired compared to applicants who apply through other channels. Referrals help get a candidate’s foot in the door.
Advantages of job referrals
There are several key advantages to getting a referral for a job:
– Increased visibility – A referral makes a candidate’s application stand out from the pile of applications that come in through job boards or other channels. The referral gets your information directly into the hands of the hiring manager.
– Social validation – Since the referral comes from a current employee, it provides social proof of your qualifications and character. The referring employee is vouching for you.
– Sign of cultural fit – A referral shows there is likely alignment on work styles and values between the candidate and company. The referrer sees the candidate as a good match.
– Higher response rate – Referred candidates are much more likely to be contacted by the company than other applicants. Some estimates put the response rate for referrals at 50-70% compared to only 5-10% for other applicants.
– Access to insider info – The referring employee can give the candidate valuable perspective and tips about the inner workings of the team and company. This extra context can help the candidate tailor their approach.
Clearly, referrals can make a huge impact when seeking a new job. Taking the time to cultivate relationships and get referrals can level up someone’s search strategy.
How to write an effective referral message
When reaching out to a connection about a job referral, it’s important that the message achieves a few key objectives:
1. Lead with the opportunity
Start the referral message by introducing the opportunity. Include details like:
– The job title
– Company name
– A brief overview of the role and responsibilities
This frames the purpose of your outreach directly. The reader will understand right away that you are interested in a specific opening.
2. Note why you are a great fit
Briefly explain what makes you a strong match for this job. Share 2-3 key qualifications or traits that align with the position. Think about what you can bring to the table that gets the referrer excited about recommending you.
For example, if the role requires deep analytics expertise, mention your data analytics credentials or experience. Or if it needs someone highly collaborative, note your teamwork skills.
3. Explain the relationship
Take a sentence to note your relationship with the referrer. How do you know them? Have you worked together previously? This reminds them of the connection you have.
4. Include a customized pitch
Make your case for why you are the right person for the job using relevant details. Demonstrate understanding of the company and team’s needs. Share why the role excites you and how your assets can contribute.
Customize your pitch based on the specific opportunity and your unique background. Use the job description as a guide for what to highlight. Set yourself apart from other applicants by showing your fit.
5. Extend gratitude
Thank the referrer for their consideration and assistance. Acknowledge the favor you are asking of them and that you appreciate their support.
Even if the request feels awkward, a thank you helps preserve the relationship. It also makes it easier for the other person to want to help you. A little gratitude goes a long way.
Referral message template
Here is a template to follow when drafting a referral message:
Dear [Name],
I hope you are doing well! I saw the opening for a [job title] at [company] and immediately thought of you. As you know from when we [worked together/went to school together/previous connection], I have extensive experience in [relevant qualifications]. This role really excites me because [explain why it interests you].
I was hoping you might be willing to refer me for this position. With your recommendation, I know my application could stand out. Please let me know if you would be open to connecting my name to the hiring manager. I would be grateful for your support.
Thank you so much for your time. Looking forward to catching up soon!
Best,
[Your Name]
This hits all the key components in a simple, professional message. Keep it short and focused. Make your request straightforward. Of course, add in any personal details that strengthen your case. But the template gives a solid foundation to build from.
Tips for getting great referrals
Beyond crafting the message, there are some additional tips to get the best results from referrals:
Pick appropriate referrers
– Only reach out to those who can authentically vouch for you. Don’t ask for referrals from connections who don’t know you well professionally.
– Consider who will carry the most weight. Senior level insiders are ideal.
– Sometimes the best referrer is not the most obvious connection. Think creatively about who is tied into the company.
Time your requests
– Try to get referrals before applying elsewhere. They have maximum impact early in the process.
– Be mindful of extra demands on the referrer. Avoid year-end or other busy periods.
Make it easy to say yes
– Do the legwork to confirm they have contacts at the company. Provide all the details they will need.
– Offer to provide a resume, portfolio or other materials as helpful background.
– Accept that they may not be able to refer you. Don’t take it personally if the timing isn’t right.
Follow up graciously
– Let the referrer know the outcome either way. Show them the impact they had.
– If it leads to an offer, send a handwritten thank you note or small gift.
– Nurture the relationship after the fact. Look for ways to return the favor.
With the right technique, referral messages can significantly advance a job search. Taking a strategic and respectful approach to asking for referrals expands possibilities and gets results. The effort pays off when it secures that dream job.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should you mention pay in a referral message?
No, it’s best not to bring up compensation in an initial referral request message. The priority is getting the referrer excited to recommend you. If the referral results in an interview, you’ll have the opportunity later in the process to discuss pay expectations.
How do you write a referral for someone you don’t know well?
If referring someone you don’t know deeply, focus on objective strengths from their resume. Highlight technical skills, educational background, or relevant qualifications. You can note positive interactions but don’t exaggerate familiarity. Authenticity is key.
What if you were referred by someone else?
If you want to pass along a referral you received, mention that person upfront. For example, “Jose Hernandez suggested I reach out to you about this opening.” This keeps the chain of referrals transparent.
Conclusion
Leveraging job referrals is a game changer for getting your foot in the door at desirable companies. With a compelling referral message, you can capitalize on your network to achieve career goals. Be strategic in who you approach and how you frame your request. With the right tactics, referrals can dramatically boost your success securing that next great opportunity.
The following table summarizes key points on crafting effective job referral messages:
Section | Key Points |
---|---|
Why Referrals Matter | – Increased visibility – Social validation – Sign of culture fit – Higher response rates – Insider access |
Referral Message Template | – Lead with opportunity – Note qualifications – Explain relationship – Customized pitch – Thank referrer |
Getting Great Referrals | – Choose appropriate referrers – Time requests strategically – Make it easy to say yes – Follow up graciously |