How do referrals in online applications work?

The question where it asks how you heard about the position and you have the opportunity to say "employee referral." Does this matter for your application? If I've spoken to someone at the bank, can I ask them if I can check that box and list them?

2 Comments
 

I generally just send my contacts a quick email asking them if it's okay for me to put their name down, and they've always said yes (if they respond). I'm sure it helps a little bit but it's 5x better if they refer you on their end. I think some banks like Morgan Stanley and BofA have a process where employees can put a candidates resume in the system. The best is if you can get a Director or MD to directly forward your resume to HR or the recruiting team - pretty much guarantees you a first round.

 

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