LinkedIn: live it, love it, optimize
the heck out of it. The ultimate network of professionals is a superior tool
for those seeking employment: more detail-oriented than Career Builder and
more accessible than Monster. But scouring job listings is only one way to
get the most out of your time spent on LinkedIn.
Leveraging this portal can not only
increase the frequency you show up in search on LinkedIn, but also expands your
reach towards maintaining relationships. It’s not enough just to have a large
network. Engagement is just as important on LinkedIn as it is on Facebook or
Twitter, whether you’re hitting the pavement for the perfect job or have been
happily employed for years.
1. Be seen.
LinkedIn is really only successful
when a profile is filled out to completion. Users sometimes hesitate to
advertise about themselves, but keep in mind: this isn’t Facebook. It’s a
professional network, and it’s fine to include relevant information and
achievements. Decide how much of your profile to make public, but keep in mind
that an amazing profile is useless if no one can see it. Leverage a profile by
adding work history, an accurate summary about yourself, an outstanding (also
accurate) picture, and start gathering recommendations. Taking the time to have
your LinkedIn presence stand out can increase SEO and give other users more
incentive to form a connection. Need more info? I’ve also written a blog about LinkedIn etiquette for businesses and professionals.
2. Get sharing.
Like Facebook, there’s a space for
status updates on your LinkedIn profile. Don’t be afraid to use it. Most of the
profiles that have really left a positive impression on me are the ones that
have frequent and interesting updates. Share what you’re passionate about,
articles or blog that have caught your eye, and ask relevant questions to your
network. Match your updates to your goals. For example, if your goal is to make
more sales, post updates about how you have helped your new clients, not about
how excited you are about the 15% commission on the new contract. Also
remember, a professional voice is very important on LinkedIn.
3. Follow your inspiration.
Is there a company or individual you
admire? Follow those who inspire you. Even if job seeking isn’t the primary function
of your LinkedIn usage, keeping an eye on who is making waves in your industry
is a good practice. If you don’t know the person you’re connecting with
personally, send them a personalized note if you decide to send them an
invitation to connect. Using the generic greeting can be interpreted as a
spammy.
4. Be a groupie.
The extensive group system is one of
the biggest and best advantages of LinkedIn. There are groups that focus on
industry discussions, regions and cities, college alumni, and all kinds of
recreational activities. What are you into? There’s a group for that. What are
your business and professional goals? There’s a group to help with that,
too. Feel free to even take the initiative and start your own group!
5. Start talking.
After joining a few groups, dive
into a discussion or two. There’s a plethora of groups on LinkedIn, from
industries to regional areas to college alumni, and there’s even spaces
available to talk about recreational interests. Group conversations are
first-rate areas for meeting people and sharing thoughts, but the best rule of
thumb? Always go professional in your communications. Don’t degrade any
interactions with rudeness, even if it’s an idea you don’t agree with. Also
explore LinkedIn Answers, which give you the opportunity to showcase your
expertise.
Casey Hines
http://www.socialmediadelivered.com/2012/07/25/five-ways-to-leverage-linkedin-besides-finding-that-dream-job/
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