Referring candidates to recruiters not from your company

Question

I had an interview with a startup which I got an offer from but I declined it. I would say I developed decent rapport with the recruiter. I have a friend who’s now applying to the same startup with slightly more YoE than me and for a different role but I don’t know if the recruiter also manages that role.

I think my friend’s background may be a good fit for the startup since the startup regularly hires out from my friend’s current company. This friend also previously interned at FAANG. The startup hires for forward deployed engineers (an uncommon position) which is what my friend currently is, but my friend is looking to transition to SWE at the startup.

I’m wondering if it’s appropriate for me to introduce my friend to the recruiter? I’m worried that if they bomb the interview it’ll reflect poorly on me and affect future job opportunities with the company.

Rahul Pandey · Accepted Answer

In general, introductions should be made via double opt-in. Get permission from the recruiter and the candidate if they'd like to be introduced.

Ask the recruiter: "I enjoyed working with you and would love to stay in touch. I noticed there's an open position at the company here. Are you interested in candidates for this role? If it's helpful, I'm happy to introduce my friend who [share relevant background]"
Ask the candidate: "Here's the open job posting. If you think this is a strong fit for you, I'm happy to refer you to the recruiter who I've gotten to know pretty well."

If they both agree, this couldn't possibly reflect poorly on you, even if the relationship doesn't work out.

I think you should do it if they both agree: connecting people who can mutually benefit is incredibly valuable, both to you and the people you know.

Referring candidates to recruiters not from your company

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