How to get referred for a job (3 methods):
1. Ask your mate for an introduction
- Run through your 1st connections on LinkedIn
- Check what companies they work for and then visit their careers page
- If you see a job you’re a good fit for, drop your friend a message and ask for an introduction
Another option is to contact people in your circle and let them know you’re on the hunt.
I mean anyone and everyone:
Friends, family, neighbours, suppliers, clients, colleagues, ex-colleagues, ex-managers, people you played sports with, college alumni, the milkman.
2. Give your references a heads up
Let your old managers and coworkers know you’re going to need them as a reference. They may know someone hiring, or they might be hiring themselves.
Here is a message template you can use as a guide:
"Hi [First Name],
Hope you're doing well. I wanted to give you a heads up — I'm starting to look for a new job in [Your Field/Industry]. Would you mind if I listed you as a reference?
Also, if you happen to hear of any openings for a [Target Job Title], I’d be grateful if you could send them my way!
Thanks for your time [First Name]."
3. Post to social media
Any shame or embarrassment you feel isn't real. You’re giving people the opportunity to help you, which is what people want to do.
Here is a template to help you along:
"Hi everyone. [I was recently laid off and] I'm actively seeking new roles in the [Your Field / Industry], specifically [Job Title 1] and [Job Title 2].
I have [Number] years of experience helping [Companies / Departments] do [Objectives related to your target role and/or company].
If you happen to hear of any opportunities or know anyone in the industry that would be worth connecting with, I'd greatly appreciate it if you could share this post or tag them in the comments below. Cheers."
Best of luck out there.