Next Step Career Consulting – Job & Internship Leads – 1.19.12

Ten LinkedIn Tips for Your Career

If networking is one of the most powerful assets in your career toolbox, then LinkedIn is your secret weapon. This 10 point guide provides you with the secrets to harness the power of LinkedIn’s 135 Million users.

YOUR PROFILE
1.      A Stellar Online Résumé. First impressions count. Your profile is essentially your résumé, portfolio, rolodex, and list of references rolled into one. If your résumé lacks punch, your LinkedIn profile probably does too. Make sure your résumé communicates your unique value and is full of accomplishments. Ask some colleagues to give you a couple of recommendations too!
2.      Have a Photo. A picture is worth a thousand words and on LinkedIn it makes your profile stand out. A photo helps folks remember you from networking events, increases the chances of your profile being found, and adds a personal touch. If concerned about appearance, upload a black/white picture, or hire a photographer. You can always change your settings, allowing only direct connections to view your profile.
3.      Optimize your Keywords. Most people know that keywords are critical on a résumé and the same goes for LinkedIn. Ensure that your profile is found by stocking it with keywords and industry buzzwords. Need ideas? Navigate to the LinkedIn “Skills” feature under the “More” tab and populate your profile with trending buzzwords. You can also sleuth for keywords on your colleagues’ or competitors’ profiles.

YOUR TOOLS
4.      Advanced Search. Hands down, the “Advanced Search” feature on LinkedIn is the most valuable to learn. Use the advanced search to pinpoint the exact folks you want to connect with. Narrow your search by location, keywords, job title, and a host of other variables. Hint: the larger your network, the more powerful this feature is.
5.      Join Relevant Groups. With thousands of groups on LinkedIn, you can easily locate a quorum of like-minded professionals. Groups are a stellar way to stay on top of trends in the discussion threads, post or find jobs, and most importantly, connect directly to the folks you are targeting.
6.      Identify Targets. Whether running a job search, building a business, or recruiting the next rockstar for your company, you ALWAYS want to start with the end in mind. Use the “Companies” tab to build a list of targets by keyword or industry. Each company profile also conveniently displays key contacts.
7.      Boost your Job Search. The “Jobs” tab on LinkedIn allows you to search for positions and trace your connections to the person who posted the job. Get in touch with the hiring manager or recruiter instantly! Save time and setup an ongoing job alert for fresh leads.

YOUR CONNECTIONS
8. Add all of Your Connections. LinkedIn accelerates the strength of your network. More connections equal a farther reach. Under the “Contacts” tab, allow LinkedIn to search your address book for folks you know.
9. Don’t add Strangers.The value in LinkedIn is that it facilitates networking among your personal relationships and their connections. By adding strangers to LinkedIn, you dilute the power of the site, and create a weak network of professionals who you cannot vouch for and who are not able to help you.
10. Write Thoughtful Messages. Behind every online profile is a person with feelings and a brain. As with face-to-face networking, make the effort to be thoughtful. If you add a connection or request an introduction, type a well-thought message that will be received with delight on the other side. NEVER, use the trite templates that are built into the site.

Enjoy your network – develop relationships, and share useful information with those in your circle. After all, isn’t what networking is about? Happy careering!

For additional tips on LinkedIn, visit the “Learning Center” under the “More” tab on LinkedIn or contact Daniel Hallak HERE for a personalized tutorial to increase you networking confidence!