What is LinkedIn?
LinkedIn is a professional networking site that strengthens and extends your existing network of contacts. These trusted contacts will help you find, be introduced to, and work with professionals to find the job you want.
Why should you join?
Since many job openings are never advertised it is very important to have a good career network. Networking means building and maintaining connections/relationships to others for mutual advantage. It is one of the most important activities that you need to do in order to land a great job and open up the “hidden job market.” Join Linkedin, create an account, and develop your profile.
How can you use LinkedIn effectively?
These seven ways will help you boost your visibility and help your career:
1) Input all of your resume information
Do not only describe your current or last job but also include all past job experience, education, and activities. Don’t be afraid to go into detail and incorporate all relevent information you would like a potential employer to know.
2) Increase your visibility
Upload your address book and connect with people you know who are already members of Linkedin. Employers will look at the amount of connections you have; however, only connect to people you know and trust.
3) Get recommendations
Get as many recommendations as possible. You can do that by either asking for recommendations or by recommending anyone and everyone you can. That way you are likely to get recommended yourself!
4) Enhance your Google Search results
If your potential employers are “googling” you, you may want them to find your professional profile and not your profile on Facebook or MySpace. Set your profile for public viewing by selecting “none” under the “public profile” tab. You also have the option of customizing your public profile’s URL to be your actual name.
5) Join a group
Joining a group will expose you to even more contacts and networking opportunities. We have created a group for Brandon University Students and Alumni. Click on the link to find the group.
6) Answer Questions
If you are knowledgeable about a particular field, present your skills and share your knowledge in the “Question and Answer” section.
7) Check out other profiles
If you have an interview, you can use Linkedin to research the company and your interviewer! You should also keep an eye on your competition to make sure you stand out of the crowd.
8) Check out the LinkedIn Jobs Board
LinkedIn has its own job board that provides unique, at-a-glance insights to put more power in the job seeker’s hands.
9) Check out the LinkedIn Salary Tool
Discover your earning potential with LinkedIn Salary. Explore salaries by job title and location. See how years of experience, industry, location and more can impact your salary.
10) Check out the LinkedIn ProFinder Tool
LinkedIn ProFinder is a freelance marketplace where students or alumni can find freelance jobs and opportunities.
This information is available in alternate formats upon request.