[062] Why referrals are the best way to get hired

There are 6 massive advantages to looking for a new job by talking to people (asking for referrals) instead of applying online. Here they are:

1. You’ll get hired 55% faster (JobVite, iCIMS, SilkRoad Technology)
2. You’ll face a LOT less competition (160:1 if you apply online, 20:1 if you go in through a recruiter, 10:1 if you get referred in [iCIMS])
3. You will jump to the front of the line (they will interview you BEFORE anyone who applies online … for the same reason you interview you’re friends’ babysitter before you interview one nobody knows)
4. You will get more interviews (MUCH higher job offer rate to people who come in by referral)
5. Your interviews will be easier, and more of them will result in job offers
6. You will be happier in the new job (After 3 years, 47% of new hires are still at work versus only 14% of those who applied through a job board)

Still not convinced? This is how much better (and easier!) it is to get a job by referral:

• 92% Referred into the Director level or above (iCIMS)
• 40%  Referred in at any level of the organization (JobVite)
• 21%  Apply directly on the COMPANY WEBSITE (JobVite)
• 19%  Work through an OUTSIDE RECRUITER (JobVite)
• 12%  APPLY ONLINE THRU MAJOR JOB BOARDS