Getting a referral for data roles

Data roles cover a lot of ground, from analysis and reporting to engineering and science. A referrer can help most when your note makes it obvious which kind you mean and shows one or two pieces of real work. This is general advice, not a promise about any employer.

Be specific about the kind of role

• Name the exact title in the job advert rather than just saying you like data.
• Say which tools and methods you have used, and for what purpose.
• Keep your note to what is relevant to that one role.

Show work, not only skills

• Pick one or two projects: the question, how you approached it, and what changed as a result.
• Link a public portfolio or repository only if it is tidy and you are happy for it to be read.
• Describe results in plain words, and only with numbers you can stand behind.

Keep data private

Never share confidential data or code from a current or past employer. Describe the problem and your approach instead.