Which comes first: The job application or the referral? 🐣 vs. 🥚
Here's my HOT TAKE 🔥:
I find that most referrals take several days (at minimum) to get. And since there's a massive advantage to applying early - see the below research from TalentWorks - that waiting around hurts your chances.
Thus, by applying early and *then* getting the referral, you maximize the advantages of both channels.
That said, I know some companies won't allow you to be *officially* referred in the ATS after you've applied online - but that's just for referral bonus purposes (i.e., they don't want to pay out since you applied anyway).
The real power of a referral is having your insider go straight to the recruiter and hiring manager and tell them how awesome you are. That's WAY more powerful than just having a checkmark in the ATS - and it's something you can get ANYTIME! ⚡️
Which to Prioritize First: The Job Application or the Job Referral?
