How to Ask for a Job Referral

Asking for job referrals is an essential part of job seeking.

Obtaining job referrals is key to finding a job. A referral is an introduction to someone who has the power to hire a job candidate with your qualifications. The methods for getting referrals are the same whether the job is as a CEO or a receptionist. You need to convince the person providing the referral that you are worthy of the job you are seeking and that providing the referral will not create any embarrassment later. You are most likely to receive referrals from friends, acquaintances, work colleagues or anyone else you've met. When meeting someone to get a referral, remember your objective and don't ask for a job directly.

Instructions

1. 

   Make a list of job referral candidates.

   Make a list of people you know who have the power to hire you for the type of job you want. Add to this list the names of people you know who are acquainted with those in the first group. Personal friends, family friends and work associates are good sources of names for your list.

2. 

   Respect your interviewer's time.

   Call the persons on your list and ask to meet with them for about 20 minutes. Explain that the purpose of the meeting is to update them on your career plans and to ask their advice. If your friend or acquaintance asks if you are trying to schedule a job interview, say, "No, I just need your advice concerning my career plans." Some of those you call will be glad to meet with you. Other will not. Don't be concerned about those who say they're unable to meet.

3. Do not ask for a job. Since you set up the meeting to gather advice, ask general questions about the job market in your field, career paths and career development strategies. The key question you need to ask is "Who would be a good person for me to talk with next?" When the interviewer gives you that name or names, you have your referral.

4. Ask the person providing the referral to tell you a little about the person you should contact next. Find out that person's position, title, employer, career history and what makes her a good referral. Make sure you get the referral's name (correctly spelled), mailing address, email and phone number. Keep a record of all your meetings and all those who provided you with referrals.

5. If your next meeting with a hiring manager turns into a job interview, you have killed two birds with one stone. Given the way in which you compiled your list of people to see, it is possible that some of them will be seeking new employees with your qualifications. However, you should make sure that the interviewer initiates the discussion about available jobs.

6. 

   Always thank those who helped you.

   Write thank-you notes to everyone who gives you an interview. This small courtesy tends to be rare. Consequently, you will be remembered in a positive way and may receive additional help and support. When you have found a position, write another handwritten note to all the contacts who met with you, letting them know how your search turned out. They should be interested in hearing the outcome.

References

• MSNBC: Revamping Job Search Strategies

Resources

• Career Know-How: Asking for a Job Referral