The short answer is yes, getting a referral for your job application is absolutely worth it. While some companies may not prioritize referrals, most (at least in my experience) give them significant weight.
I can’t provide exact numbers to measure their impact, but I can confidently say that having a referral is always better than not having one. In some cases, I’ve seen companies contact candidates within hours of me submitting a referral on their behalf. It’s a small effort that can yield big results.
What if you can’t find someone to refer you?
Don’t stress over it. If you can’t secure a referral in time, submit your application anyway. Referrals are helpful, but they’re not mandatory. I’ve personally landed plenty of interviews (and jobs) without one. At the end of the day, your skills, experience, and how you present yourself can carry you just as far.
