LinkedIn is a social site — a place for finding others and getting found. From personal experience as an executive resume writer, I can say with confidence that the more effort you put into using it the greater your ROI. There are many myths and misnomers out there about what works (and what doesn’t!) when it comes to job searching on LinkedIn. It’s time to set the record straight.
LinkedIn Myth/Misnomer #1: LinkedIn is Just for Job Seekers
While this misnomer was likely fact back in the early days, today that is certainly not the case. Hop on LinkedIn and you are likely to see job seekers, yes, but also all sorts of people using the platform to share their advice and sell their services and wares.
While no doubt LinkedIn is a fantastic platform for those looking to make a career move, it is also a great site to maintain your professional network, promote yourself AND your business.
LinkedIn Myth/Misnomer #2: A LinkedIn Profile is Equivalent to Having a Personal Website
Similar to a website, LinkedIn is a great platform to help decision makers and connections understand what you’re about professionally. Also similar to a website, when written well, it should contain keywords that will lead others to your page.
It has the potential, however, to be MUCH more.
When used optimally, unlike a website which is often static, LinkedIn is a dynamic snapshot of the professional you. In other words, it is (or should be) constantly changing with new connections, updates and activities.
Here’s how:
Check-In Regularly: Make time regularly to post something to your feed and add connections (with personalized notes!).
If you are in full-throttle job search mode, I recommend posting 3X a week and adding 3 connections each time – ideally thought leaders in your industry.
Passive job seekers can pare this down but aim for at least 1 post and new connection weekly.
Join Groups: Select a handful of groups (2 or 3 providing they appear active) and start chiming into conversations, and/or sharing role/industry-relevant content together with your own thoughts on topics of interest.
Leverage Tools for Sleuthing: LinkedIn’s search function can help you identify thought leaders, potential connections and companies of interest. Truly everything you need to kick your job search into high gear or keep your network primed and ready.
LinkedIn Myth/Misnomer #3: LinkedIn is for Online Networking Only
While LinkedIn is certainly an online platform, it can and should serve as a springboard to launch deeper conversations off the site – via skype, phone or even in-person coffees, etc.
Savvy LinkedIn users often engage in an online discussion, follow it up with a customized connection request, and once accepted send the person a quick note asking them to schedule some time to talk and learn more.
Maximizing your LinkedIn ROI
Your ROI when it comes to job searching on LinkedIn is directly related to how you use the platform. Whether a job seeker or not, it pays to make a habit of using the site regularly, take advantage of its tools, and having a dynamic, complete and current profile.
Previously appeared on IvyExec.com
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