Benjamin Todd

The implication for job seekers, if you're a programmer, bring a program you have done, with its code.

If you're a photographer, bring photos.

If you're a counsellor, bring a case study with you, etc.

Now the third step for the typical employer, or the third last step for the typical job seeker,

Using a best friend or business colleague.

Hiring someone whose work a trusted friend of yours has seen.

Perhaps they worked for him or her.

The implication for job seekers, find someone who knows the person who has the power to hire at your target organisation, who also knows your work and will introduce you to.

Fourth step for typical employers, and the fourth last step for the typical job seeker, using an agency they trust.

This may be a recruiter or search firm the employer has hired, or a private employment agency, both of which have checked you out on behalf of the employer.

The fifth step for the typical employer, and the second step for the typical job seeker, using an ad they have placed, online or in newspapers, etc.

And the last step for a typical employer and the first step for a typical job seeker, using a resume, even if the resume was unsolicited, if the employer is desperate.

That diagram's from the 2015 edition of What Colour Is Your Parachute?

Applicants find about 50% of jobs through connections, and many are never advertised.

So if you don't pursue referrals, you'll miss many opportunities.

Moreover, speaking to people in the industry is the best way to get information about how to present yourself and how to approach opportunities.

It's also among the best ways to assess your fit, helping you to focus on the best opportunities.

How to get referrals.

You need to master the art of asking for introductions.

We've put together a list of email scripts you can use.