Although 2020 has brought so many changes, LinkedIn continues to be the largest online business networking platform and a top influencer in how we leverage and advance our careers. Learning how to negotiate the ins and outs of this powerful social media tool is to everyone’s advantage. Here’s 9 Top Strategies for Diving Deep into LinkedIn:
Create a profile with a professional photo and pertinent details. It might seem obvious, but attention to detail is important when looking to network and make significant career connections. Be succinct in your accomplishments and don’t forget to include your efforts at volunteerism. The goal is a well-rounded profile, just as when you’re applying for a new position. Think of LinkedIn as your online resume.
Make meaningful connections. The first connections are the obvious ones, but then what? Browse your connections’ connections to see if there are any that may be an acquaintance, and think about adding those. Don’t send blind connection requests—include a brief message of how you have a mutual connection, etc. As you start to build your network, requests will organically come to you. You’ll be surprised how it grows!
Post regularly. Creating meaningful content that is of interest to others (that they in turn may share) is key to broadening your LinkedIn presence. Also, be sure to share articles you find interesting. This is another method of organically growing your network.
Ask some colleagues for recommendations. Having a balanced number (not one or two, but not necessarily dozens, either) of well-written recommendations are a plus to those looking at your profile. They can often lead to new opportunities when making connections.
Always keep an eye on career trends and available positions. You may be perfectly happy on your career trajectory, but don’t underestimate the power of keeping an eye on that Job section of LinkedIn. Why? Because it allows you to keep up with industry trends, see who’s hiring and how they may be expanding positions in their organization, and keeps you up to date with the key words, phrases, and HR terminology that’s in the forefront.
If you are unemployed, it is especially important to look on LinkedIn as much as you would any other source for potential jobs. The advantage here is that LinkedIn is built on people and connections, rather than sending a blind resume to an email box of the HR Department. Be sure your profile is ultra professional, and you may choose to tactfully state that you are looking for an opportunity in your field. Let a few key connections know you are searching for that next opportunity as they may know of a possibility or be able to introduce you to some of their key connections or a great recruiter.
Use Company Profiles to your advantage. Read about companies you are interested in and/or are highly regarded in your field. You can also search to see if you have any connections at a particular company. Continuous learning will pay off, if not immediately, but in the future. You never know when an opportunity will present itself, and having knowledge of your desired company is always beneficial.
Follow influencers in your field and join LinkedIn groups of like-minded individuals. We know that many experts and those at the top of their field do not accept invites for connection; you may wonder how you can form a relationship despite this brick wall. Mutual connections are of course important, but so is joining groups that those people may have started or are actively involved in. Just keep connecting, and even though the connection that was your goal may not transpire, you’ll be sure to meet many interesting and influential people along the way.
If you’re recruiting for a position, check out Recruiter and Recruiter Lite. It’s an excellent option to make connections and meet new prospective candidates and there are free trial versions. The search capability is excellent, and again, you’ll meet people who may keep you in mind for the future.
If you are unemployed (or as I like to say “between successes”), it is especially important to look on LinkedIn as much as you would any other source for potential jobs. As with anything else, you’ll get out of LinkedIn what you put into it. Remember that networking in a professional atmosphere is as key as in a more personal, social arena. Spend some time on this network, and you’ll be certain to reap the rewards!
I wish you a very prosperous 2021! As always, I’m available to assist you in your journey. For more information on my coaching services, visit my website at www.mbrownassociates.com.