How to move from a networking connection to a referral.

5 Comments

1. Kris Mertins-ElliottFebruary 19,2022 at 1:10PM UTC

   I can't say that I have experience from the side of looking for a referral from someone I don't "know" on LinkedIn. I'm not saying there isn't a way to do that, but for myself, personally, I would only ask for referrals from someone who knows me, knows my experience, knows my work ethic and trusts me (at least on a personal/work level). I'd be interested to see other comments, though. Good luck to you! :)

2. Ashley BrackenFebruary 19,2022 at 1:56PM UTC

   I only ask / receive referrals from known co-workers. I don't believe I have ever asked. Start by giving referrals / reviews on some of your co-workers and in return they might do the same for you.

3. Joanna RouseFebruary 19,2022 at 2:05PM UTC

   Agree and this is so important. Working through this now. I just recently asked someone for a LinkedIn referral. That is an easy first step. I positioned it as I was trying to beef up my LinkedIn profile and we have a great working relationship may I invite you to do a referral on my page and of course I repaid them with doing one. Once you have that it is easier to now use them as a recommendation or referral outside of the digital world :) hope it helps.

   another tip - someone people want you to write up what to say and they will tweak - also have done that before

4. Peggie Arvidson * Career Consultant | Adoptee Advocate | RecruiterFebruary 21,2022 at 1:43PM UTC

   Be specific to be terrific - it's a corny cliche, but true.

   Let's say you see my profile and I'm connected to someone you'd like to meet.

   After you and I connect, send me a note like this:

   "Hi Peggie. Thanks for accepting my connection request. As mentioned, I reached out because I'm in the process of starting a career pivot from X to Y and I note you and NAME are connected. NAME has made a similar pivot and I'd love an introduction to them. Would you be willing to do that?"

   or if you want a referral to a job in my company that you saw on our website,

   "Peggie, thanks for connecting. I reached out because I saw the Controller role you have on your company's website. Would you have a couple of minutes to chat about the position, or be able to put me in contact with the person who does?"

   Again, you're not asking me for a job. You're not asking me for an hour. You're asking for a couple of minutes. And I'm on LinkedIn to be helpful.

   Now when I reply and give you some times - pick one or suggest another (DO NOT SEND A CALENDLY or some such SCHEDULER!).

   Then create bullet points that you want to address in our call. Maybe three questions - so that you can be cognizant of your time.

   Wrap up and say (something like) , "thanks again for your time, I better understand XYX. Before I go, is there anyone else you think I should reach out to?"

   Then continue to reach out now and again to tell me how things are going (I'll do my best to keep in touch too!)

   Good luck.

   These examples may not relate to exactly what you're looking for - as always Specific to be terrific.

5. Teri GibsonFebruary 22,2022 at 2:49AM UTC

   When you are considering applying for a job, the post will not any LinkedIn people you know. Contact them directly to see if they would put in a good word for you. I started a new job in January 2022 that I was interested in on LinkedIn. I saw a former co-worker worked there. We have always had a good relationship even though it had been awhile. I applied first then let her know. She helped to move my resume to the top of the list and I work there now. Never give up and go for it.