LinkedIn is unquestionably the social network for job-seeking professionals—or even if you are not looking right now. 92% percent of recruiters use social media in their work today, and LinkedIn is the social network we use most! So, it is vital to have a LinkedIn profile that will be attractive to both Recruiters and Employers.
If you are wondering how to use LinkedIn to find a job, these concrete tips give you the best chance at finding employment on LinkedIn.
1. Keep your profile up-to-date
If you want your profile to get noticed, make sure to update it regularly, add a professional photo, and include your notable skills.
2. Highlight recent experience
You want your recent experience to stand out to those who view your page, especially when you are actively engaging with connections and companies to land a new job.
3. Update your Headline
Your photo, name, and headline (which is listed below your photo) are the only items people see when searching on LinkedIn. Your headline should stand out and highlight what you do or what type of position you are looking for.
4. Let Recruiters know you are available
If you can announce the fact that you are looking for a job, do so. Use your headline to make the announcement. If you cannot announce it, you can change your setting to “Open to Opportunities”, so that Recruiters are encouraged to contact you about new opportunities that match your profile.
5. Build your network
Connecting with people on LinkedIn can build your network very quickly and expose you to new opportunities. Make sure to connect with anyone you have worked or studied with and ask them to introduce you to their connections too.
6. Research the companies you are interested in and follow them
This will help you stay informed about company news and new positions as they become available.
7. Be active on LinkedIn
Share interesting articles or videos as updates, ensuring they are relevant and appropriate for LinkedIn. Get involved with groups and interact with others on LinkedIn. The more you interact and post as a professional, the more you will be noticed.
8. Ask for recommendations and endorsements
Together, endorsements and recommendations give a better idea of what you are like to work with, where your true skills and passions are and what some of your achievements might be. This also makes it easier for the right opportunities to come your way.
9. Interview Preparation
Do not forget, LinkedIn will be your number one source of information when preparing for an interview. Find out who will be interviewing you and look them up on LinkedIn – look at their career path, their specific interests, and any current projects they are working on. Use it to your advantage and tailor your answers to engage them!
You will also get a great insight into the company by looking at their blog, and you will be able to track industry developments that you can discuss in the interview.
As the job market is ever-changing, it is no harm to keep updating yourself with the latest trends in recruitment and LinkedIn is quite possibly the number one place to do this! So start updating your profile today.
