Cheat sheet
How to ask for a referral, on one page
Four steps, in order. Print it or keep it open while you work. General advice, and every employer works a little differently.
1. Get ready
- Read the job description and pick one specific role.
- Check your CV and LinkedIn match it.
- Decide who to ask first.
Helpful:
2. Send a short message
- Name the role and why you fit, in two or three sentences.
- Attach your CV and link the job.
- Make it easy to say no.
Helpful:
3. Follow up once or twice
- Wait about a week, then send one polite nudge.
- After a second nudge, let it go and ask someone else.
- Keep a simple log of who you asked and when.
Helpful:
4. Say thank you
- Thank your referrer, whatever the outcome.
- Tell them how it goes.
- Stay in touch.
Helpful:
Do you refer people? See the cheat sheet for employees.
Want someone to ask?
On Doorstep, employees say which roles they refer for. You apply once and get an answer with a reason, even when it’s a no.