When most of us think of social media, networks like Facebook and Twitter come to mind. However, it’s important to remember LinkedIn. LinkedIn is a social media network aimed at professionals.
The point of LinkedIn is true networking, where you can grow your network, as well as connect to people in others’ networks.
For professionals looking for a job, or for employers looking for qualified professionals, LinkedIn is one of the best places to be online.
Tips for Using LinkedIn
As you prepare for using LinkedIn to its best advantage, there are some basics to help you position yourself for improved results:
- Create a Representative Profile: Since the point of LinkedIn is to connect professionals, the more complete your profile is, the better off you are. Include your current and past positions, as well as your education. Share your skills and expertise. Include a professional profile photo, and develop a summary paragraph that serves as your personal statement/elevator pitch. Be accurate, and avoid exaggerating to make yourself look better.
- Start with Your “Real World” Connections: It’s important to get started with the connections you know in real life, or those you have worked with in the past. Use your contacts from your email as a starting point. LinkedIn offers the option for you to import contacts, and you should take advantage of that ability. You can then see which of your connections are already on LinkedIn. Once you have connections to people you have worked with before, you can view their connections.
- Get Involved in Groups: LinkedIn also offers the ability to start groups and discussions. Participate in discussions, ask and answer questions, and join groups of interest to you. As you become involved on LinkedIn, it’s possible to “meet” new people, make new connections, and find new jobs.
- Search for Others: You can use LinkedIn to search for new partners and employees as well. Use LinkedIn to help in background checks, or identify those that you can work with. You can also receive recommendations from those you know; LinkedIn offers a way to find trusted colleagues and collaborators from an extended network.
- Remember LinkedIn Etiquette: Make sure to practice proper LinkedIn etiquette. If you contact someone you don’t know, asking to make a connection, describe who you are, and why you want to connect. For the most part, it’s best to contact only those with whom you already have a connection (direct, or through someone else). Recommend others before you start asking for recommendations. If you write recommendations, colleagues will begin recommending you. Don’t spam discussion groups with self-serving links and sales pitches.
- Be Careful with Personal Information: You also need to be careful with your personal information. While you do want to share information about your qualifications and experience, it’s important to be careful. Some personal information can be used in identity theft. If you aren’t careful about what you share, as well as those you let connect with you, it could put you at risk.
LinkedIn is a great resource. However, it’s important to use it wisely, and understand the basics before you get started. Can you find a use for LinkedIn?
