How do you balance asking for referrals and applying for jobs on your own?

1 Why referrals matter

Referrals are recommendations from someone you know who works at or has a connection with a company you're interested in. Referred candidates can stand out from the crowd of applicants, show their network of trusted professionals, and get an insider's perspective on the company culture, expectations, and challenges. According to a study by LinkedIn, referrals are the most common source of hires, accounting for 40% of all hires. They also have higher retention rates and satisfaction levels than other sources, increasing your chances of getting an interview and an offer.

2 How to ask for referrals

Asking for referrals can be intimidating, particularly if you don't have a close relationship with the person you're asking. However, you can request referrals in a respectful and successful manner by following these steps. First, identify who to ask. Consider people who know you well, are in your field or industry, have ties to your target companies, or have referred others successfully. Additionally, do your research and make sure you understand the company and role before reaching out. Also, see if the person you're asking has any direct or indirect connections with the hiring manager or team. Furthermore, compose a personalized message that explains why you're interested in the company and role, how you know the person you're asking, and what you hope they can do for you. Be polite, concise, and considerate of their time. Finally, follow up and thank them if they agree to refer you and keep them informed of your progress. Even if they decline or can't help you, thank them anyway and don't take it personally.

3 How to apply for jobs on your own

Asking for referrals is not the only way to find a job; you must also apply for jobs on your own if you don't have many referrals or if you want to explore different options. To apply for jobs effectively, use multiple sources such as company websites, social media, industry publications, networking events, and career fairs. Additionally, you can take advantage of online tools like Google Alerts, Indeed, or Glassdoor to track new openings and company reviews. Furthermore, tailor your application to match the specific requirements, keywords, and tone of the job description. Highlight your relevant skills, achievements, and value proposition while using clear and concise language and avoiding errors and typos. Finally, keep a record of the jobs you apply for with the dates, contact details, status, and follow-up actions. This will help you stay organized, avoid duplication, and monitor your progress; you can use a spreadsheet, a calendar, or an app to track your applications.

4 How to balance referrals and applications

Finding the right balance between asking for referrals and applying for jobs on your own depends on your situation, goals, and preferences. However, some general guidelines can help you find a balance that works for you. Quality should be prioritized over quantity, so focus on the jobs and referrals that are most relevant, realistic, and aligned with your career path. Diversify your strategy by using a combination of referrals and applications to maximize your opportunities. Be proactive and persistent in seeking out jobs and referrals, updating your resume and cover letter, researching companies and roles, networking with people in your field or industry, following up with applications and referrals, and preparing for interviews. Don't give up if you face rejections or challenges; learn from them and keep trying.

5 How to evaluate your results

The ultimate goal of your job search is to discover a job that suits your needs, skills, and aspirations. To reach this objective, it is essential to evaluate your results and modify your strategy accordingly. To aid in this process, consider the following questions: how many jobs have you applied for and how many interviews have you received? How many referrals have you asked for and how many have resulted in interviews or offers? Are you content with the quality and quantity of the jobs and referrals you have found? What are the strengths and weaknesses of your application materials and your interview skills? Have any feedback or suggestions been provided by your referrals, hiring managers, or recruiters? What challenges or obstacles have you faced or anticipate facing in your job search? What opportunities or trends have you noticed or expect to see in your field or industry? Finally, what changes or improvements can be made to your job search strategy? By addressing these questions, you can evaluate your performance, recognize areas for development, and set new goals and action plans.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?