I’ve heard that having a referral can give you a major boost, but I’m not sure how to approach people or even if it’s worth asking. And how many referrals do I need?
Hey there,
I know I’m late to this, but did not want to leave your question unanswered as it could be interesting for future candidates as well.
The short answer is: Yes, referrals absolutely make a difference. A strong referral can get your application looked at more seriously and sometimes even fast-tracked past initial screenings. However, you don’t need tons of referrals. One good one at the right firm can be enough to make an impact.
If you’re not sure how to approach people, start small: alumni, former colleagues, or even second-degree connections on LinkedIn. Instead of outright asking for a referral, build the relationship first. Ask for advice, insights on their firm, or a quick coffee chat. If the conversation goes well, many people will offer to help naturally.
How is it going for you now? Hope you’ve been able to build some connections, but if you’re still figuring it out, happy to give more tips!
Referrals can absolutely make a big difference in landing a job, especially in competitive fields like finance. When someone inside the company vouches for you, it helps your application stand out from the pile because it signals you come recommended and are more likely to be a good fit.
That said, it’s not just about having lots of referrals—it’s about quality. One well-placed referral from someone who knows you and can genuinely speak to your skills often carries more weight than a handful of generic “can you refer me?” messages.
To get a referral, start by reaching out to people you already know who work at the company or in the industry—former classmates, alumni from your school, friends, or connections from internships or events. Be genuine and clear about why you’re interested in the company and how you think you could add value. Instead of just asking “Can you refer me?” try to build a bit of a relationship or conversation first. People respond better when you show you’ve done your homework and are serious.
If you don’t have direct contacts, LinkedIn can be useful. Look for alumni or people in roles you want, send a polite message asking for advice or an informational chat first, and if that goes well, you can ask about referrals later.
One or two good referrals can be enough, but don’t be afraid to keep building your network. Just make sure you’re respectful and not spammy.
So yes, referrals are worth it and can speed things up, but focus on building genuine connections rather than just hunting for names. It takes a bit of time but it pays off.
