How to ask for reference from a non-academic acquaintance?

Question

I have a non-academic acquaintance who is at a senior position in the telecom industry. He might have good links in academia. I am thinking to ask him for suggesting or referring me to his contacts in academia for a post-doctoral position. I do not want any favor based on nepotism or anything like that, just a chance of getting my CV noticed.

I am confused about it being ethical or not. Maybe I am being too eager.

How can I approach my acquaintance about this without giving 'him' the feeling that I want his favor or that I want to use his name?

PS. It is about North American institutes.

There is nothing unethical about asking. – Buffy Feb 22 '20 at 13:42 — Buffy, Feb 22 '20 at 13:42

score 1 · Answer 1 · answered Feb 22 '20 at 10:04

1

How can I approach my acquaintance about this without giving 'him' the feeling that I want his favor or that I want to use his name?

You do want his favor and name, but that's fine: If he helps, then he is doing so because he wants to.

answered Feb 22 '20 at 10:04

user2768

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score -1 · Answer 2 · answered Feb 22 '20 at 12:05

-1

You ask nicely, and by wanting his name to push your cv forward you want his favor and support.

So, realise what you are asking and respect that.

answered Feb 22 '20 at 12:05

Solar Mike

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How to ask for reference from a non-academic acquaintance?

2 Answers2