What do I ask for when asking an analyst to refer me for an internship

I'm applying for a summer internship and I'm a tiny bit confused as to how I should ask for a referral. On the application for the internship, there is an option to put an employee down as a referral. I was originally just going to ask if it would be ok to put them down as a referral in the application, but I was reading how some people ask the analyst to email their resume to HR/the talent acquisition team and was wondering if I should ask them to do that too. It seems like a bit much to ask them to do both tbh but not really sure. 

Also I probably should have asked this before, but is it even ok to do this after one informational interview? They explicitly said they were happy to help with any future questions and guidance, although they probably say that to everyone just to be polite. 

Would really appreciate any help or guidance on this I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed.

4 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's how you can approach asking an analyst for a referral for your summer internship:

  1. Initial Contact and Informational Interview:

    • It's important to first establish a connection through an informational interview. This helps build rapport and shows genuine interest in their experiences and the company.
  2. Drafting the Email:

    • When drafting your email, be polite and concise. Here's a suggested template:

      Hello [Analyst's Name], I hope you're doing well! Thank you for taking the time last week to talk with me about your experiences with [Company Name]. After hearing from you, I was inclined to look more into the company and was driven to apply to [Position] as a Summer Intern. I think it's a good place to start and really learn more about [specific field or department]. Would you by any chance be comfortable with sending my resume to the talent acquisition team if possible? I'm aware it's difficult to stand out from the competition, but I have faith a referral from you would increase my chances with [Company Name]. I can send my updated resume to you, plus a brief summary of my background if that helps. Thank you again for your time and consideration. Best regards, [Your Name]
  3. Asking for a Referral:

    • It's perfectly fine to ask if you can put them down as a referral in the application. However, it can be more effective to ask if they can forward your resume to HR or the talent acquisition team. This direct approach can often yield better results.
  4. Timing and Etiquette:

    • It's generally acceptable to ask for a referral after one informational interview, especially if they have expressed willingness to help with future questions and guidance. Just ensure your request is respectful and acknowledges their time and effort.
  5. Follow-Up:

    • If you don't receive a response, a polite follow-up email after a week or so can be appropriate.

By following these steps, you can effectively ask for a referral while maintaining professionalism and respect for the analyst's time.

Sources: Getting referred for internships, You want a summer analyst offer? Here's how..., Finishing 1st Year as HF Analyst - Ask Anything, "The Ask" - How to?, Advice for summer and return offer rate?

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

Don’t overcomplicate this. 

Ask the analyst you met if you can list them as a referral. Feel free to also ask if they can pass along your resume. 
 

Worst thing that happens is they ignore you. Best thing that happens is you immediately have a leg up on the competition. It’s worth the ask. 

Commercial Real Estate Developer
 

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