If you are on LinkedIn, you’ll either want to jump in and make an impact or just step away now and not spin your wheels. But, here are some things to think about. A lackluster profile can simply get lost in a sea of other profiles. Having a half-completed profile page or a static page with no recent activity sets off a red flag to connectors and employers. They will jump to the conclusion that you are not actively networking or job searching. Don’t let them conclude that you are not fully embracing this powerful tool because you don’t see or understand its value.
But you are not alone if you have no idea what steps to take to fully engage on this social network. Often I am asked, “How do I make an impact?” “Where do I start?” Below are a couple of ideas for you. A few actions specific to LinkedIn which will allow you to take advantage of this rich database of contacts and information whether you are a job seeker or simply hoping to expand your network.
However, before we get started on some of these fun actions, there are two fundamentals I must mention:
Fundamental: Complete Your Profile
The more complete your LinkedIn profile is, the more jobs LinkedIn will be able to suggest for you. A complete profile obviously also appeals to people viewing it from a networking or candidate search perspective. Think about how much you appreciate a robust profile to review before meeting someone for an informational coffee.
When a potential employer looks at your profile, they’ll be forming an opinion based on your headline, summary box —which includes specialties and key words you have strategically added — as well as your skills and expertise section long before they read any other information. Think of your profile as the subject of a speed-reading class.
Fundamental: Check out the Jobs Section
LinkedIn has become one of the most sought-after job listing sources for savvy job seekers. Click on the Jobs tab at the top of the homepage and you’ll be taken to a keyword search box. Try using the advanced search function for more filtering options as well. Looking for an entry-level job or internship? Try searching LinkedIn’s new College Student Internships and Jobs for Graduates site.
Now, let’s focus on some actions you can take to use LinkedIn to your advantage and really standout in a crowd.
Get Connected
Connections are to LinkedIn what Friends are to Facebook and Followers are to Twitter. On LinkedIn it is critical to have a consistent strategy for Connection, as this is a professional site with a more focused and static imprint than the faster moving Facebook and Twitter.
Part of that strategy will be to come out swinging — be proactive. Do not wait to be invited to be a Connection by someone else. Focus in on people who could be beneficial to you, people you would genuinely like to connect with on a deeper level, or share an interest or specialty with you. A great place to start is former colleagues and college friends.
Once you are connected to people, LinkedIn permits you to message Connections for free rather than paying for an upgrade to “InMail”. Since many members do not publically list their email address on their public profile, there is no way to contact them privately other than through the Messages function, unless you know them personally.
Common question: Should I purchase an upgrade on LinkedIn? My thought: If you are just getting started building your Connections and community on LinkedIn, there is really very little need to purchase any type of upgrade. The basic level should be sufficient.
Hint: When sending a request for a Connection, personalize that message. LinkedIn will give you a general “canned” message to connect, but sending a more personal note tells the potential Connection that you took the time to think abut them rather than blast emailing all your potential Connections.
Want to get more insider information on using LinkedIn as a job seeker? Check back here next week for more LinkedIn actions to make the most of this powerful tool.
-Bryn Johnson ’89