??How to get referrals from your LinkedIn network for your dream job.

If you are looking for a new job, you might be tempted to just apply online and hope for the best. However, this strategy is not very effective, as most online applications end up in a black hole of resumes. According to a study by Jobvite, only 15% of hires come from job boards, while 40% come from referrals.

Referrals are one of the best ways to get noticed by hiring managers, as they show that someone in the company vouches for your skills and fit. Referrals can also help you bypass the initial screening process, get faster feedback, and negotiate better offers. In fact, referrals are hired 55% faster than candidates who applied via a career site.

So how can you get referrals from your LinkedIn network?

Here are some tips to help you:

1?? Identify potential referrers

The first step is to find people in your network who work at the company or industry you are interested in. You can use LinkedIn’s search function to filter by keywords, location, current company, past company, school, and more. You can also use the “People Also Viewed” section on the profiles of your target companies or roles to find relevant connections.

You don’t have to limit yourself to people you know personally. You can also reach out to second-degree connections, who are people who share a mutual connection with you. You can see who your mutual connections are by clicking on the “Highlights” section on their profile. You can also leverage your alumni network, professional groups, or online communities to find potential referrers.

2?? Craft a personalized message

Once you have a list of potential referrers, you need to send them a message to ask for their help. Don’t just send a generic message or a copy-paste of your resume. Instead, craft a personalized message that shows that you have done your research, that you have something in common, and that you have a clear ask.

?Here is an example of a good message:

Hi John,

I hope this message finds you well. I saw your profile on LinkedIn and noticed that we both graduated from UCLA and that you work as a product manager at Google. I’m currently looking for a new opportunity in product management and I’m very interested in working at Google.

I was wondering if you could share your experience working there and give me some advice on how to apply. I have attached my resume for your reference. If you think I’m a good fit, I would really appreciate it if you could refer me to the hiring manager or the HR team.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Best, Janet

Notice how this message is polite, concise, and specific. It also gives a reason why the person should help you and what you expect from them.

3??Follow up and thank them.

After you send your message, don’t just wait for a reply. You should follow up with your potential referrer after a few days if you don’t hear back from them. You can send a gentle reminder or a friendly update on your status. For example:

Hi John,

I hope you are doing well. I just wanted to follow up with you regarding my previous message. Have you had a chance to look at my resume and see if you can refer me to Google?

I’m really excited about the opportunity and I don’t want to miss the deadline. Please let me know if you need any more information from me.

Thank you for your help and support. I really appreciate it.

Best, Janet

?? If you do get a referral from your connection, make sure to thank them sincerely and keep them updated on your progress. You can also offer to help them in return or send them a small gift or a thank-you note as a token of your appreciation. For example:

Hi John,

I’m thrilled to share with you that I got an interview invitation from Google! Thank you so much for your referral and your guidance. You made a huge difference in my job search and I’m very grateful for your generosity.

I’m preparing for the interview and I’m confident that I can ace it. I’ll let you know how it goes. If there is anything I can do to help you in return, please don’t hesitate to ask. You are awesome!

Best, Janet

?? Getting referrals from your LinkedIn network can be a game-changer for your job search. ??

?? Connect with Me for More Insights

Looking to level up your career game? Let's connect! ?? I'm here to share more insights, tips, and motivational stories to keep you motivated and moving forward. Hit that "Follow" button and join the journey! ??

Remember, the next big opportunity might be just one click away. ?? Let's rise above the challenges and thrive together!

I wish you the best of luck! ??

?? Follow me - Loribeth Pierson and my Company Page

?? Ring the Bell ?? on my profile to be notified when I post.

#jobalert #nowhiring #job #gethired #jobfair #recruiting #jobopening #hiring #jobs #jobhiring #remotework #jobsearching #atsresume #ats #hire #resumewriting #resumewriter #resumetips #linkedintips #jobinterview #career #linkedprofile #linkedInprofilemakeover #jobtips #jobsearchtips #LinkedIn #csuite #CareerAdvice #JobSearchTips #CareerSupport #coverletter