5 Tips to Using LinkedIn Effectively

The number of users on social networking websites has skyrocketed over the past few years. With Facebook now claiming over 500 million users and daily “tweets” reaching an astonishing 65 million on Twitter, more and more people are relying on these types of websites to connect and share information with people all over the world. The number of people using these sites for job searching and business development is growing; however, most Facebook and Twitter fanatics strictly use these social phenomena for entertainment or keeping in touch with old friends.  As far as “professional networking” goes, LinkedIn still reigns supreme. 

Launched in 2003, LinkedIn now has over 75 million users in over 200 countries. Creating a personal account on this site is becoming essential to modern-day job searching and career development. Completing your profile, updating your status, and continuously adding more “connections” (adding a few every week) is the easy part. There is much more you can do to build your professional network and promote yourself in the job market. For example, you can optimize your visibility on search engines by repeatedly mentioning key words (such as your company’s name or by calling yourself a “financial services expert”) throughout your profile. This simple strategy can help you show up before others when these items are searched. 

Here are five simple tips to help your LinkedIn profile work most effectively:

1) Get Introduced
Expand your network by getting introduced to new people through your existing connections. Looking for a job in a current or new location? Chances are that your colleagues and friends know hundreds of other people and companies in different careers and cities. Explore your connections to network with new people in a desired industry or location.

2) Get Recommended
LinkedIn provides an option of getting recommended by current or past supervisors, co-workers, or anyone else that is familiar with your work ethic and character. It is beneficial to recommend others whom you may have worked with or know as well, even if they haven’t requested it. This is a great way to show your credibility and boost your reputation.

3) Linkedin Q & A
This section of the website gives users the opportunity to answer questions in their particular field of interest or expertise. Proactively answering questions may exemplify your expertise in that particular field. Looking for a job? Ask questions for yourself as well. You will find many people willing to share information about any job opportunities or knowledge they may have. Simply by participating in the conversation, you are expanding your exposure.

4) Join Groups
There is no better way to meet new people and make connections than by joining a group.  Numerous different groups exist pertaining to particular industries, careers, and interests. Joining groups that are relevant to your career and interests will keep you up to date on the latest information and networking contacts. Be sure to keep an eye on your e-mail.  Once you join a group, you have the option of receiving regular updates on discussions, events, and job opportunities from its members.

5) Researching on LinkedIn
Looking for information about target companies? LinkedIn allows you to find people and information associated with your desired field of interest. Search company and personal profiles to educate yourself about your favorite organizations and make new connections. Much like “becoming a fan” of a particular interest on Facebook, you can now “Follow” specific companies and get updates on organizational changes. This sort of information may be very useful in educating yourself during the interviewing process.