Raya Referral Tips: How to Get Invited by Existing Members

Why Referrals Matter So Much on Raya

Raya referrals dramatically shift acceptance probability. Without referrals, even strong candidates face 95% rejection. With multiple quality referrals, acceptance approaches 70-80%.

Referral Impact on Acceptance:

• No referrals: ~5% acceptance (merit only)
• 1 referral: ~20% acceptance
• 2-3 referrals: ~40-50% acceptance
• 5+ referrals: ~70-80% acceptance

Understanding the Referral System

Raya members can invite friends directly within the app. Each referral:

• Gives you priority committee review
• Carries weight based on referrer's standing
• Reflects on referrer if you behave poorly
• Compounds with multiple referrals

Who Can Refer You

Ideal Referrers:

• Close friends already on Raya
• Professional colleagues in creative industries
• People who genuinely know you
• Members with good standing (active, respected)

Referrer Quality Hierarchy:

1. Influential members: Well-known creatives, verified accounts
2. Long-time members: Established Raya presence
3. Active members: Regularly using platform
4. New members: Less referral weight

How to Network for Referrals

Industry Events Strategy:

• Film festivals and premieres
• Art gallery openings
• Music industry showcases
• Tech startup conferences
• Creative professional mixers

Building Genuine Relationships:

• Focus on authentic connections, not just Raya
• Add value to their network first
• Build relationship over months, not days
• Demonstrate you belong in creative circles

Referral Request Etiquette

When to Ask:

• After established friendship (6+ months)
• When your profile is optimized
• After you've added value to their network
• When you genuinely fit Raya community

How to Ask:

• Be direct but not pushy
• Acknowledge they're vouching for you
• Offer to show your application first
• Accept no gracefully

What NOT to Do:

• Don't ask casual acquaintances
• Don't pressure or guilt trip
• Don't ask publicly (DMs only)
• Don't ask multiple times if declined
• Don't apply before optimizing profile

Multiple Referrals Strategy

Multiple referrals compound significantly:

• Ask 3-5 people in different creative circles
• Space out requests (not all at once)
• Ensure each knows you genuinely
• Different industries show broader network

Building Your Creative Network

Long-term Networking Approach:

• Join creative professional groups
• Attend regular industry events
• Collaborate on projects
• Add value before asking favors
• Build reputation in your field

Alternative Paths Without Referrals

If you lack referrals, strengthen other areas:

• Grow Instagram to 10,000+ followers
• Create exceptional professional work
• Get media coverage or press
• Build undeniable creative credibility
• Be patient (committee may eventually accept)

After Getting Referred

• Apply immediately (referral priority window)
• Ensure all application components are perfect
• Thank referrer regardless of outcome
• If accepted, honor their vouching with good behavior

Final Referral Strategy

Referrals are earned through genuine relationships in creative industries. Focus on building authentic network, adding value to community, and positioning yourself as someone who belongs on Raya.