Referrals: The Most Effective Way to Land Data Science Interviews

Mastering the power of asking

I read somewhere that the top 3 fears among people are:

1. Public speaking

2. Heights

3. Bugs Cold messaging a stranger asking for a referral.

I’m kidding of course, but there is no doubt that asking for a referral can be daunting.

The problem is that after coaching so many aspiring data scientists trying to break into the job market, I realize that not enough people are incorporating it into their strategy.

But it’s not exactly the “fear of asking” that holds people back, it is usually the irrational fear of getting rejected or being vulnerable.

For me, I had this stubborn mentality that I could do it all by myself and didn’t need to ask for help (a.k.a. be vulnerable).

Until the day that, against every instinct, I forced myself to make the Ask during a career fair (which I followed up with a LinkedIn message).

Back then, I dreamed of working at Google. I had already applied three times and even sent a video cover letter once, but all I had to show for it were three really nice-looking rejection emails.

Yet, all it took was one kind stranger to say “yes” and refer me to land that precious interview.

LinkedIn message I sent my referrer thanking him for helping me get an interview at Google.

Today, I want to help you master the art of asking, by giving you specific strategies to get referrals for data science roles.

These are the same strategies I’ve used over the years to help me get referrals and land interviews at top tech companies such as Viaplay and Spotify.

Remember, It’s not enough to just ask, if you want to increase your chances, you need to apply the right strategy depending on who you are asking, present yourself correctly, and time your message strategically.

Let’s get to it.