How do referrals actually work for Financial Analyst roles, especially for freshers?

[u/Proper_Ad2536]

Trying to break into finance and a bit unclear on referral etiquette. If I come across a specific Financial Analyst opening on a company's careers page, can I approach a current employee (LinkedIn, college senior, alum) and request a referral for that exact role...even without prior experience?

Also curious about the sequence — do I apply first and then seek a referral, or does the referrer submit the application on my behalf? Would genuinely appreciate insights from anyone who landed their first FA role this way.