How to Get UX/UI Referrals and Interviews Without Applying to 100 Jobs
If you’ve been applying to UX/UI jobs without much success, you’re not alone. The truth is, most UX jobs aren’t even advertised. Instead, they’re filled through referrals and networking. In this guide, you’ll learn how to land interviews and referrals without submitting 100+ applications.
We’ll cover:
- How to make your portfolio referral-worthy
- Networking strategies that actually work
- Cold messaging scripts that get responses
- Where to find high-quality UX referrals
- Resources to help you build a job-winning portfolio
Let’s dive in!
1. Optimize Your Portfolio for Referrals
Before reaching out for referrals, your portfolio needs to sell you. If someone refers you, they’re putting their name on the line—so make it easy for them to vouch for you.
Key Portfolio Improvements:
- Showcase results, not just visuals – Use case studies with real impact (e.g., "Increased conversion by 23%").
- Keep it simple & professional – Use clean, intuitive navigation.
- Highlight relevant work – Tailor your portfolio for the job you want.
👉 Need a portfolio? Webflow (affiliate) and Framer (affiliate) are powerful UX portfolio builders used by top companies.
Want more visibility? Submit your portfolio to our Best UX Portfolios section. You could get featured as one of the top picks of the week!
2. Leverage Your Existing Network (Without Feeling Awkward)
Referrals often come from weak ties—people you’re not super close with but still know.
Who to Reach Out To:
1- Ex-colleagues & managers
2- UX designers & recruiters in your LinkedIn network
3- Alumni from your UX bootcamp or past jobs
4- Design communities like ADPList.
Simple Outreach Script:
👉 For ex-colleagues or acquaintances:
"Hey [Name], hope you’re doing well! I’m currently exploring new UX opportunities and saw that [Company] has a role open. Do you know who I could chat with to learn more? No worries if not—just wanted to reach out!"
👉 For LinkedIn connections:
"Hi [Name], I admire your work at [Company]. I’m transitioning into UX and would love to hear about your experience there. Would you be open to a quick chat?"
The goal: Start conversations, not ask for jobs right away.
3. Use Cold Outreach to Get Referrals (With High Response Rates)
Don’t have a network? No problem. You can cold message UX professionals and hiring managers—if you do it the right way.
Where to Find UX Referrals:
- LinkedIn – Look for designers, hiring managers, or recruiters at your target companies.
- Twitter/X & Reddit – Engage in UX discussions and DM people.
- UX Slack Groups – Join active UX communities and industry-specific groups.
High-Converting Cold Message Template:
"Hey [Name], I came across your work at [Company]—really impressive! I’m looking to transition into UX and was wondering if you have any advice on breaking into [Company]. I’d love to hear your thoughts if you have a few minutes."
Make it personal, keep it short, and don’t ask for a referral right away.
4. UX Job Boards Worth Exploring
While most referrals happen through personal connections, some platforms can help you get closer to decision-makers or find curated, high-quality UX roles.
- UX Remote Talent – A curated job board focused on real UX/UI openings, with daily updates and no fluff.
- Toptal – Exclusive network for top-tier designers.
If you’re new to UX, certifications like the Google UX Design Certificate (affiliate) or CareerFoundry UX Program (affiliate) can boost your credibility.
5. Join UX Mentorship & Alumni Networks
Many UX programs have built-in referral networks. If you’ve taken a UX course, you might already have access to referral opportunities.
Best Places for UX Referrals:
- CareerFoundry & DesignLab Alumni Networks – These programs include active alumni and mentor communities where students support each other with job tips, interview advice, and occasionally referrals.
- ADPList Mentorship – Get UX career guidance from pros.
- Meetup & Local UX Events – Attend industry networking events.
Also check out our blog post: Top Websites for UX Designers to Land Freelance Work if you’re exploring freelance gigs.
6. Follow Up Like a Pro (Without Being Pushy)
If someone agrees to refer you or chat, don’t leave them hanging.
Follow-Up Script:
Hey [Name], just wanted to say thanks again for your time! I really appreciate your willingness to connect. If I can ever return the favor or support you in any way, don’t hesitate to reach out.
If you don’t get a reply, follow up once after a week with a friendly nudge.
Recap: Your UX Referral Game Plan
✅ Make your portfolio referral-worthy
✅ Reconnect with old colleagues & network naturally
✅ Use cold outreach with personalized messages
✅ Leverage UX job boards & mentorship networks
✅ Follow up professionally
What’s Next? Start small—reach out to 3 people today. Your UX dream job might be one conversation away!
Need a professional portfolio? Try Webflow (affiliate) or Framer (affiliate).
Looking for UX jobs? Explore UX Remote Talent
Want to build credibility? Consider the Google UX Certificate or CareerFoundry UX Program (affiliate)
Ready to land your next interview? You've got this.
