Getting referrals on LinkedIn can significantly boost your job search and help you land interviews faster. Here are some tips on how to get referrals from your LinkedIn connections:
1. Optimize your LinkedIn profile
The first step is to make sure your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date and portrays you in the best possible light. Include all your relevant skills, experiences, accomplishments, certifications, and recommendations. Make sure your profile headline, summary, and work experience descriptions contain relevant keywords. A strong profile signals to connections that you are qualified and worth referring.
2. Expand your network
Having a large network increases your chances of getting a referral. Proactively connect with colleagues, classmates, professors, friends, family members, and 2nd-degree connections. You can also join relevant LinkedIn groups in your industry to connect with like-minded professionals. Aim to have 500+ connections to maximize your referral opportunities.
3. Identify referral targets
Research and identify the companies you want to work for. Then look through your network to see who works at your target companies. Prioritize connecting with employees who work in the department or team you want to join. HR managers and recruiters at the company are also great targets.
4. Customize connection requests
When sending connection requests, customize the message to mention any commonality you share with the person. Remind them where you met or worked together. This helps jog their memory so they are more inclined to accept your request.
5. Engage with your network
Be an active participant in your network. Like and comment on connections’ posts to stay top of mind. Share relevant articles and resources that would interest them. Congratulate them on work anniversaries and promotions. The more you engage, the more likely they will be to help when asked.
6. Join target company groups
Most companies have LinkedIn Groups dedicated to employees and alumni. Join any Groups related to your target companies. This gives you visibility to employees and lets you demonstrate your interest in the company.
7. Follow target companies
Follow the LinkedIn Company Pages of your target employers. Like and comment on their posts. This puts you on the radar of recruiters from those companies who may check out your profile and proactively reach out.
8. Offer to help others
Find ways to add value for your connections by offering advice, resources, or introductions. You can also endorse skills, write recommendations, and share connections’ content. Helping others naturally motivates them to want to help you back.
9. Ask for informational interviews
Reach out to employees at your target company to set up informational interviews. Prepare questions about their career path, company culture, hiring best practices, etc. At the end, ask if they would be willing to refer you if a relevant role opens up.
10. Send targeted referral requests
When you see a job opening that’s a great fit, reach out to relevant connections at that company to ask for a referral. Mention why you are interested in the role and highlight relevant skills or experiences you have. Attach an updated resume to make it easy for them to refer you.
11. Personalize your ask
Avoid mass blasting generic referral requests. Carefully select connections who you think can and will want to refer you. Send them a personalized message explaining why you are seeking their referral specifically.
12. Time your requests
Pay attention to when jobs are posted and send referral requests as soon as possible, ideally within 24-48 hours of a new opening. The faster you can get referred, the better chance you have before positions fill up.
13. Follow up graciously
Always follow up to thank connections, whether they were able to refer you or not. If they weren’t able to refer this time, nurture the relationship for future opportunities. Referral sources are more likely to help again if you show gratitude.
14. Offer referrals to others
Be helpful and freely offer referrals to your own connections. This sets the example that you are someone who supports others. Reciprocity says they will then feel compelled to return the favor someday.
15. Share your job search progress
Politely keep your network updated on your job search progress. Let them know when you land interviews or offers thanks to their help. This keeps your search top of mind so they continue sending opportunities your way.
In summary, getting referrals on LinkedIn is all about building mutually beneficial relationships. Optimize your profile, expand your network, and engage consistently with high-value connections. Help others generously and they will be motivated to return the favor. With a thoughtful referral strategy, you can get your foot in the door at coveted companies.