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From where do the EY HRs procure the resumes?
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Referrals really do move the needle! What worked for me was reaching out to people from my extended network (old classmates, colleagues, even LinkedIn connections I hadn’t spoken to in ages) and asking for a quick 10-minute chat about their experience at their company, rather than directly asking for a referral upfront. Most people love talking about themselves, and after a genuine conversation, I’d mention I was job hunting and ask if they’d feel comfortable referring me. It felt a lot less awkward, and I actually got a few solid referrals that way. Sometimes, just showing interest in their story opens the door!
It doesn’t hurt to seek out referrals, I also wouldn’t totally hang my hat up on getting one. Even if you do have somebody solid on the inside to vouch for you it doesn’t mean you 100% have the job. All that being said you really do have to be mindful in submitting applications and even that only goes so far right now.
I have several friends that have been looking for new jobs and they reached out to their family and friends, anyone they could think of honestly to see about getting a referral. The job market is tough so you honestly have to put yourself out there and see who knows who. My friends dad talked to a friend of his who ended up getting her a job.
Receiving a referral is a very effective way to get hired, but if you don't personally know anyone who is connected with or works at the company, you have to get in touch with people who work there. On the company's LinkedIn page, go to "People," and find several potential contacts who work in your target department. Make sure you have something in common (maybe you went to the same school, etc.), and then reach out! Send a connection request, and add a note: "Hi [Name], I'm a huge fan of [ABC Company] because [share your specific admiration for the company]. Can we connect? I have a quick question." When your request is accepted, you can send each person a longer message elaborating on why you love this particular company (talk about their mission, values, products and services, etc.) and ask about the person's experience working there. Eventually, you can ask for advice on how to earn a job at the company (DON'T ask for a job directly). If you get lucky, the person might not only give advice; they may also forward you to the hiring manager, helping you get noticed in the hiring process. Does that help? You've got this!