What to do when a referral doesn't work out

A referral helps your application get noticed, but the company still decides. Sometimes the answer is no, either from the referrer or later in the process. That can be disappointing, and it is also normal.

Start with the feedback

If you were given a reason or a tip, read it twice and decide what you can act on. If you were not given one, you can ask once, politely, and accept that some people cannot say more.

Thank the person who helped

A short message costs nothing and keeps the door open. Say thanks, say what you learned, and say you hope to stay in touch.

Adjust, then try again

• Tighten your CV so it speaks directly to the next role.
• Check your note: is it specific, short and honest?
• Pick roles that fit what you can already show, and say why.
• Ask someone you trust to read your CV and give you honest comments.

One no says very little about you. It often says more about timing, other candidates or what the team needed that month. Apply to someone else when you are ready.