Using LinkedIn Efficiently in Your Job Search

Once you have developed a robust LinkedIn profile, you must be an active participant to attract the attention of hiring managers and the 130,000+ recruiters that source candidates on LinkedIn.find a job on LI keyboard

Grow Your Network: Connect with friends, family and business contacts. Use LinkedIn as your contact database. The more connections you have, the better your odds of the right people finding you. Network with recruiters and others in your field to expand your reach. You never know where these connections may lead. But, do not just make connections — build real relationships. Get to know your connections, and schedule face-to-face coffee dates with those with whom you share a common interest.

Social Proof: Increase your “Know, Like and Trust” factor by including recommendations that show that people like to work with you and respect your work. Request recommendations from current and former colleagues, supervisors and clients. Be sure to reciprocate and recommend others as well. Business etiquette is important. Do not let your first interaction with someone be a request for a recommendation or an introduction.

Be Active: Periodically update your profile and share insightful content via status updates. Most people find it easiest to share interesting online articles before sharing original content. Join groups that are related to your industry and be active in the group discussions. Showcase your professionalism and expertise to make the hiring managers take notice.

Many employers post jobs on LinkedIn, but I recommend applying via their website rather than directly from LinkedIn. You’ll want the opportunity to tailor your resume and cover letter to the position to increase your chances of winning an interview. You can also follow companies via their LinkedIn company page to show your interest. LinkedIn is the #1 job search tool in the world. Use its full functionality to accelerate your job search results.

Not sure where to start? We offer LinkedIn profile development and well as LinkedIn training. Email us today and we can get you up to speed on using LinkedIn in your job search.

 

Trish Thomas founded The Resume Resource in 2009 to help people develop the tools, strategies and confidence to build satisfying careers. As a Career Coach and Resume Writer, she helps her clients articulate their unique value to stand out from the competition, and guides them through the job search process to make it less overwhelming and more successful. www.the-resume-resource.com 

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