Have you ever been in a position where an acquaintance’s company has the perfect role for you, but you decide to not reach out since its been a while?

Referrals are the most effective tool in your job search. According to Jobvite, they increase your chances by 15 times compared to online applications.

Yet, people are willing to miss this due to hesitation!

Now, the other action is probably worse where you reach out to your acquaintance randomly with a “Can you refer me to this job?” request!

So, here are a few things you can absolutely do:

Step 1: Research about your acquaintance

Check out their LinkedIn (potentially where you realized the company they work for) and other social media to have a quick glance at what they have been up to

Step 2: Reach out to them with a small favor to ask

Especially if you have not been in touch for a while, asking for a referral is a very big ask. Break it down to a simple ask.

My advice – move them to a conversation.

A simple outreach like this is enough:

“Hey Sally,

It’s been a while! I saw that you [insert something you uncovered during research]

I am in the midst of my next career move and saw that you work with XYZ company. It would be very helpful if I could speak with you for 5-10 mins about your experience of working in XYZ. Let me know when we could have a conversation!

Kind regards,

Shub

+65 98xx xxxx”

While Sally may be hesitant to refer you, she may be willing to spare 5-10 mins to have a call with you.

Step 3: Build trust during the call

1. Genuinely make the call about her experience.
2. Briefly introduce your experience and expertise.
3. Ask if she knows what experience and skills are valued most for the role you are gunning.

Step 4: Make your Ask (by giving them an out)

“What would be the best way to apply for this role?”

And here are 3 possible responses:

1. The best is to apply online (Sally is not ready to endorse you yet but you have given her the choice of declining politely)
2. I can refer you to our portal (Make sure you send her a short paragraph on why you are suitable to reduce her work)
3. I know the hiring manager and can share your resume directly (The best possible outcome for you but something you should not ask for directly)

As always, the high-level strategies are simple, it is the execution that makes all the difference!