Getting the most out of LinkedIn
Author of this post:
briana, October, 10th, 2012,
0 comments
LinkedIn is a great tool for networking, making connections and finding a job. The site has made some recent changes, such as thought leaders and endorsements that really keep this site useful and up to date. Here are some tips to maximize your LinkedIn presence.
Profile
- Make sure your profile is public: the idea of the site is for people to find you
- Do have a photo. Make sure it shows your face clearly and is friendly and professional. Use a recent photo.
- Keep your profile updated by reviewing every few months – show your current workplace and new skills gained
- Your profile summary should be professional, but that doesn’t have to mean boring! Read your profile, and consider re-writing it to be more unique and interesting
- Customize your url: use your name, website or keywords instead of the default numbers
- Get recommendations from your contacts – aim for quality recommendations from appropriate people. It is better to have a small number of very good recommendations from people such as former bosses or high-level employees than a large number of quickly-written recommendations from your best friends
Endorsements
- Here is a great way to add legitimacy to all those skills you claim on your profile: seek out endorsements to validate your skills in the eyes of recruiters. Employers will be looking at the number of endorsements on your profile
- Select skills that match the jobs you are applying for
- Endorse others – they will likely return the favour
Networking & Groups
- Join a group, or even start your own (make sure it is unique), this is a great way to network and make key contacts. Go to organized events and meet more people in person.
- Commenting and asking questions is a great way to connect with others who have similar interests, and makes your profile for visible
- Make sure everything you write, in group discussions or on your profile, is professional with good grammar and spelling
- Write original invitations to connect with people: don’t use the default message. If you do not know them well, introduce yourself briefly
Here are some links to more resources you may find helpful:
Choosing your LinkedIn photo (careerealism.com)
The LinkedIn Blog – full of news & advice
