This is just one of the things
that LinkedIn does. I haven't yet mentioned the benefits on your career. In a
field such as Public Relations and Marketing, essentially, it's all about
networking. You have to know people in the industry, or know people who know
people in the industry, and even still know people who know people who know
people in the industry. Did you get that?
;)
Along with networking with
like-minded individuals, employers will post jobs on LinkedIn before posting
elsewhere. Some even post exclusively on LinkedIn and not to the public.
Your skills and
expertise are displayed on your profile page. Your education and work history
are on the front lines. Just like Facebook, your current position is posted
below your name and alongside your profile photo.
Some best practices:
·
Have an up to date photo - not the headshot you
got done 10 years ago.
·
Keep it current - whether it's a new skill or a
new position all together, adding what you are doing now will get more attention
rather than something you did years ago and did not change.
· Try
to get endorsements - essentially what this
does is confirms that the information you are providing on your profile is true
and accurate. Past employers (assuming that you left on good terms),
colleagues, and friends can endorse your profile.
· Add people in your industry - you may find it
difficult to add random people, LinkedIn requires you to know them or to know
someone who knows them (I won't go on, you get what I am saying) before adding them.
Remember to keep things
professional. Your followers on LinkedIn are not interested in what you had for
breakfast or why your dog suddenly had to visit the vet. Potential employers
will look through your profile and browse any links you've added, such as your
blog.
Am I missing anything? Add it
here, I'd love to hear your thoughts or experiences with the professional
social networking site.
No comments:
Post a Comment