What is LinkedIn and how can it help you?

Posted by:
Deputy Director George Moriarty, Department of Workforce Development

 

Networking is an essential tool for an effective job search.  Many good job leads and connections are uncovered when the job seeker takes full advantage of a variety of networking opportunities.  One popular new online networking tool is called LinkedIn.  Our guest blogger this week, Bob Reidy of The Career Place, one of the state's 37 one-stop career centers, provided us with a helpful description of LinkedIn and how it can be used as part of an effective job search strategy. Thanks Bob!
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What is LinkedIn?  LinkedIn is an interconnected network of experienced professionals from around the world, representing 170 industries and 200 countries.  You can find, be introduced to, and collaborate with qualified professionals that you need to work with to accomplish your goals. (http://linkedin.com/about)

Facing the challenges of today's economy requires the use of some "out-of-the-box" tactics.  With fewer job openings and more jobseekers, the importance of networking to your next employment opportunity is essential.  According to a Career Transition Study done by Drake Beam Morin, 64% of the almost 7,500 people surveyed said they found their new jobs through networking.  I would venture to estimate that number to be much higher today.

LinkedIn is an excellent tool to revive and expand your network.  You can connect with former bosses, coaches, family, and co-workers.  People who know you.  People who can attest to your professional knowledge, skills, and abilities.  Use the search function to reacquaint yourself with former college professors and friends.

Finding that elusive company contact can be very frustrating. Another search function allows you to search for members using company name.  Many times you will find members of LinkedIn who are current or former employees of one of your target companies.  These potential connections may allow you to refer your resume to the actual hiring manager.

LinkedIn Tips:

LinkedIn is one of many tools to use in your job search, so use it wisely.
Be careful of the information that you post about yourself.  Future employers may be using the same tool.
Make it easy for people to find you.  Make sure your information is up-to-date.
Highlight your knowledge, skills, and abilities.  Recruiters are searching for you!

                                                                        Bob Reidy
                                                                        The Career Place, Woburn

The Career Place is one of the state's 37 one-stop career centers. The Career Place is also on LinkedIn Groups. Click here to see their page.

Comments

[Jobs]

Great article. There are a few more of these sorts of sites (like linkedin.com) springing up around the place and they are really useful.

[John Fagan]

I have found that linkin does work and it works well. If you are looking to get involved in the linkin (social networking) system get in and do it. Jump in with both feet and push as many social networks as possible. I will bring you popularity.

[Ari Herzog]

Thanks Bob (and George) for posting this information.

I'd like to add to the above, to help other readers:

1. Unless you attend networking events with a bag over your head, please upload a headshot to your profile.

2. The first thing I look at (after your name, headline, and picture) is the summary section which ought to extrapolate the key points of your background and skills, and what you're looking to do or how you're willing to help. Folks who have no, or small summaries, make me wonder if they use LinkedIn at all.

3. It's also crucial--especially if you want to find a job--to get involved in the Answers section. You can click the "Answers" tab at the top of the LI site. In this way, you can answer questions where you feel you can add value. If the questioner likes your answer the best, you're "branded" as the so-called expert on that question which people will see down the road. You can also ask questions. I view the Answers section as peer review.

You can view my LinkedIn profile at http://linkedin.com/in/ariherzog if interested.