Questions to ask yourself before you ask for a referral

A referral request takes someone else's time and reputation. A few minutes of preparation makes it easier for them to help.

1. Is this the right role for me?

Read the job description. If you meet most of the main requirements, ask. If you meet very few, a referral is unlikely to change the outcome, and the person you ask may feel awkward.

2. Is this the right person to ask?

Look for someone in or near the team, or in a similar role, who is likely to understand the job. On Doorstep, check that the referrer says they refer for your role.

3. Can I say why I fit in two sentences?

If you can name two concrete pieces of experience that match the requirements, your note will be easy to write and easy to read.

4. Is my CV ready?

Use our CV checklist so the referrer can open it and see the match straight away.

5. Have I made it easy to say no?

People help more readily when there is no pressure. A line such as 'no problem at all if it isn't a fit' keeps the request friendly.

When you are ready, our message generator turns these answers into a short, polite note you can edit.