You’re applying for job after job, but all you’re hearing is silence. Meanwhile, someone with fewer qualifications gets hired — all because someone at the company referred them. It can feel discouraging, especially when you don’t know anyone who can help you.
But referrals aren’t only for people with powerful networks. You can build the right kind of connections from zero. What you need is a strategy — not luck or family influence.
Learn below how to get a solid referral, even if your LinkedIn network is empty and you’re completely new to the field.
1. Choose specific companies and roles
Referrals work best when you know exactly what you want. Narrow down your focus to about five companies where you’d truly like to work. Go through their careers pages or job boards and pick out roles that match your background or interests.
Now write those down. Company. Role. Location. This clarity helps you when reaching out. Most people ignore vague requests like, “Any job will do.” But when you say, “I’m interested in the data analyst position at XYZ Ltd.,” they know how to help you.
2. Look for real people inside the company
Go on LinkedIn and search for employees at those companies. Don’t aim too high right away — you don’t need the CEO. Start with mid-level staff, junior employees, or team members who recently joined. Often, they remember what the hiring process was like and are more open to talking.
Filter your search by department too. If you want a role in digital marketing, find someone in that exact team. Look for people active in your city, or those who once studied in a similar college.
3. Build a small connection first
Don’t message them out of nowhere and ask for a referral. That usually backfires. Give it a few days. Start by following them. React to their posts. Leave thoughtful comments when they share insights. You’re creating visibility — showing you’re not a spammer but someone who pays attention.
If they don’t post often, see what they’ve liked recently. Join the conversation under those posts. When you finally message them, your name won’t be unfamiliar.
4. Send a message that sounds like a person, not a template
Now it’s time to send a message. Keep it short, polite, and personal. The goal isn’t to beg for a referral. The goal is to open a conversation.
Here’s how your message could look:
Hi Ayesha, I noticed you work at XYZ Ltd. in the growth team. I’m aiming to transition into content strategy and saw there’s an opening at your company. Would you be open to sharing a bit about your experience there, and if appropriate, offering a referral? I understand you're busy — even a quick reply would mean a lot.
Always customize the name, team, and job. People know when they’re reading a copy-paste request. And avoid sounding desperate. Be confident and kind — like a peer, not a beggar.
5. Have your resume and portfolio ready
Once someone agrees to refer you, send your resume without delay. Double-check the formatting, spelling, and job relevance. Label your file clearly.
If your field involves writing, design, or development, send a link to a small online portfolio. If not, just attach a focused resume tailored to the company’s job post. This shows you’re prepared and respectful of their time.
6. Stay organized and follow up gently
Use a basic spreadsheet or notebook to track the people you message, when you contacted them, and what the response was. Don’t message someone again the next day. Wait a full week before following up.
Here’s how your follow-up can sound:
Just wanted to follow up in case my earlier message got lost. I’d still really appreciate any guidance or support you’re comfortable sharing. Thanks again for your time.
If they still don’t reply, move on. There are thousands of professionals online. One “no” doesn’t block your progress.
7. Build long-term relationships, not just one-time favors
Referrals are just the start. If someone helped you, try to stay in touch. Congratulate them when they get promoted. Share their work if you liked it. Comment on their posts from time to time. These small acts build real relationships.
Even if they couldn’t refer you this time, they might do it next time. Or recommend someone else who can.
8. Join career communities outside LinkedIn
Don’t rely only on LinkedIn. Plenty of people are active in Slack groups, Discord servers, or career forums. Find online communities in your industry and start showing up.
Many junior professionals offer peer referrals in these spaces. Some post job openings with referral links. You can also join alumni groups from your university — even if you never spoke to those seniors before, many are happy to help someone from the same background.
Getting a referral without connections isn’t easy, but it’s very possible. You don’t need a famous surname or hundreds of followers. What matters is showing effort, asking the right way, and treating others with respect.
Every connection starts somewhere. Start building yours today — one message at a time.
0 Comments