Employment referrals the right way

When competition for IT opportunities is intense, the value of every possible edge is magnified. A recommendation from someone within a potential employer can make the difference between landing an interview and continuing frustration. In many cases, job seekers are calling on the outermost reaches of their networks -- and sometimes beyond -- to find a way in. As a result, some IT professionals are fielding so many requests that they are suffering from "referral fatigue" and feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of people who have asked for their assistance.

In such a pressurized environment, many job candidates, as well as the contacts they approach for referrals, aren't sure where to draw the line. A job seeker might not know how or whom to ask for a recommendation, while a contact within an employer might not know when or how to turn down a request. All of these whos, hows and whens become easier to answer when both parties keep the why of referrals firmly in mind: to match a qualified professional with the right position.

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A few simple guidelines can make for a more effective, less stressful referral process.

Tips for candidates seeking referrals

Build a foundation first. Make a point of establishing rapport with a contact before making a referral request. Asking for a favor shouldn't be one of your first interactions with a contact. Someone who doesn't know you well -- and who might be fulfilling your request reluctantly -- is unlikely to provide a compelling referral.

Go one-on-one. It may be tempting to avoid direct, personal requests in favor of a blanket e-mail to everyone in your network. After all, such an approach can help you reach more people more quickly. But many members of your network will assume that others have already offered their help and may not respond to your message. An individual approach is more likely to lead to success.

Help them help you. Providing a referral shouldn't be hard work. Don't make your contact dig for information about you. Even if your contact knows you well, provide him with specific "speaking points" about what you can offer the employer. Brief details about your relevant skills and achievements will allow the person to "sell" your qualifications to a hiring manager and make a much stronger impression than positive generalizations.

Take "no" for an answer. Be aware that not everyone can or will help you. Don't take a rejected request personally or let it end a potential relationship. By approaching the process stoically, rather than with an air of pleading desperation, you're more likely to encourage the kind of well-considered recommendations that can convince a hiring manager you're worth a close look.

Tips for contacts asked to give referrals

Feel free to say no. If you're in a position to provide referrals, don't feel guilty about turning down requests. That way, you'll protect the value of your recommendations as well as your reputation within the company. If you're not genuinely enthusiastic about a recommendation, it isn't likely to be an effective one anyway. Politely let the person know that you're not in a position to help them at the moment.