Getting a referral for engineering roles

Referrers into engineering teams want to be confident you can do the work described, because their name goes next to yours. Clear evidence helps them far more than a long list of languages. This is general advice, not a promise about any employer.

Match the stack and level honestly

• Use the technologies named in the job description that you have really used, and say how recently.
• Be accurate about your level. A referral that overstates you helps nobody.
• Mention the size and type of systems you have worked on, in plain terms.

Point to evidence

• One or two projects you can discuss in depth, with your own role made clear.
• A code sample or write-up only if it is yours to share and is in good shape.
• How you work with others, such as reviews, on-call or mentoring.

Respect confidentiality

Do not share private code or internal details from any employer. Describe the problem, your approach and the outcome instead.