tanaypratap
referrals
- don't ask for one from unknown
- referrals have intrinsic value. Understand this.
- create your network now, when you don't need referrals
- don't dig the well when you're thirsty, no one will help you then
- learn how to create network, provide value, form partnerships across jobs. It takes time. Invest that time now.
Referrals mean something. At least for me. It means I am putting my personal stamp on you. When I refer someone I put in the system what I admire about the person and why he/she would be a good fit. How the team/organization will benefit from his addition into the team. I think that's one of the reason that when I put a referral the candidate is almost always called for interview. Coz my comments show utmost sincerity and honesty.
I can't do that when I don't know the person. So, messaging me and asking me for a referral I feel is not a valid ask. Question is, "Can I not get your referral if we haven't worked together?" Answer is, "You can! Utilise the community and here's how"
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Speak in meetups and conferences. I follow a lot of speakers.
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Write good blogs and share your knowledge. I follow a lot of bloggers.
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Create something on Github and evangelize it.
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Participate in discussions on Twitter and LinkedIn.
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Moderate a telegram group, a subreddit.
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Start a newsletter.
Give me a chance to know you better. Let this be organic. In the last 2-3 years of my job at Microsoft I have referred a lot of folks. I love to be the one opening the doors for your next opportunity. But not through DMs, through open collaboration on public platforms.
Otherwise, there's always the option to apply directly on the job opening.
Last thought, someone who refers anyone loses internal value too. If I refer someone I know 100pc he/she will get an interview call. Coz I have made sure that my referrals are good.
So, beware when someone is referring you without knowing you, coz that too is not gonna help.