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Know your target
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Leverage your network
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Expand your outreach
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Craft your message
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Follow up and update
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Here’s what else to consider
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Asking for referrals can be a powerful way to boost your chances of landing a job interview. But how do you find the right people to ask for referrals? In this article, you'll learn some practical tips on how to identify and reach out to potential referrers who can vouch for your skills and fit for the role.
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- Ashish Narang Area Sales Manager at SACMI India, SACMI |TEDx Speaker | Best Selling Author | LinkedIn Creator Accelerator 22…
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1 Know your target
Before you start asking for referrals, you need to have a clear idea of what kind of job you're looking for and what companies you're interested in. This will help you narrow down your search and focus on the most relevant contacts. You can use online tools like LinkedIn, Glassdoor, or Indeed to research companies, roles, and industry trends. You can also browse through job boards, forums, blogs, and podcasts to find out more about the culture, values, and expectations of your target employers.
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2 Leverage your network
The next step is to leverage your existing network and find people who work or have worked at your target companies. These can be former colleagues, classmates, mentors, or friends who can give you insider information and refer you to the hiring manager. You can use LinkedIn to filter your connections by company, industry, or location and see who you know or who you have mutual connections with. You can also join professional groups, associations, or alumni networks and look for members who work in your field or sector.
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- Ashish Narang Area Sales Manager at SACMI India, SACMI |TEDx Speaker | Best Selling Author | LinkedIn Creator Accelerator 22 |Part Time Educator | YouTube- 40,000 Subscribers | LinkedIn 13K | Let's Connect 🚀
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References bolster credibility. When you reach out to the hiring manager of your target company with the endorsem*nt of someone currently employed or formerly associated with the organization, your chances of seizing the opportunity multiply exponentially. Furthermore, if the individual vouching for you has a track record as a top performer, it's the icing on the cake.
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3 Expand your outreach
If you don't have any direct or second-degree connections at your target companies, you can still expand your outreach and find potential referrers. You can use social media, email, or phone to contact people who share your interests, values, or goals and ask them for advice, feedback, or guidance. You can also attend online or offline events, webinars, workshops, or meetups and network with people who work in your industry or niche. The key is to be genuine, respectful, and curious and to build rapport and trust before asking for referrals.
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4 Craft your message
Once you've identified the right people to ask for referrals, you need to craft a personalized and compelling message that explains why you're reaching out and what you're hoping to achieve. You should start by introducing yourself and stating how you found them or what you have in common. Then, you should express your interest in the company and the role and highlight your relevant skills and achievements. Finally, you should ask them if they would be willing to refer you or connect you with the hiring manager and thank them for their time and consideration.
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5 Follow up and update
After you've sent your message, you should follow up and update your potential referrers on the status of your application. You should send a polite and friendly reminder if you don't hear back from them within a week or two. You should also let them know if you get an interview, an offer, or a rejection and thank them for their support and assistance. You should maintain a positive and professional relationship with your referrers and keep them informed of your progress and achievements.
Asking for referrals can be a daunting task, but it can also be a rewarding one. By following these tips, you can find the right people to ask for referrals and increase your chances of getting hired.
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- Ashish Narang Area Sales Manager at SACMI India, SACMI |TEDx Speaker | Best Selling Author | LinkedIn Creator Accelerator 22 |Part Time Educator | YouTube- 40,000 Subscribers | LinkedIn 13K | Let's Connect 🚀
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Follow-up is often underestimated. When you reach out to someone to request their reference, they take the time to explore opportunities in their network for you. However, failing to maintain timely communication can derail the entire effort.Once you've approached someone for a reference, stay engaged with them until they have feedback to offer.Simultaneously, after they've recommended you, keep them informed about your progress. This practice not only helps you cultivate strong connections but also opens doors to more opportunities.
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6 Here’s what else to consider
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