If you feel unsure about using LinkedIn to connect with others in your field to find your next job, just look at the numbers. As of January 1, 2018, LinkedIn had 500 million users, with 133 million in the United States alone. Of those that use it, 40 percent do so daily, and 44 percent of LinkedIn users make over $75,000 a year. So, make sure you use it to your best advantage – it’s almost a no-brainer in the business world.
- Know what to put on there. Aside from the basics of name and current job, make sure to add your education – those who do show up in searches 17 times more than those who don’t. Make sure to add your location as well. Recruiters and others want to know where you live, especially if they’re local. You also need a solid summary statement that thoroughly, yet succinctly sums up your interests, motivation and skills. Top it off with a professional-looking picture. And if you want to really catch the recruiter’s attention, use your headline to go beyond the typical job title.
- It’s social media – get social! Join groups in your industry and contribute by responding to others’ posts or posting pertinent articles of your own. Make sure to engage with your contacts in a similar manner. Because you don’t want to spend your workday doing this, however, make sure you have the app on your phone and network during your off time. You can also connect with someone you don’t know by sending a customized invitation mentioning your similar fields and how you like what they’re doing. If they’re local, offer to buy them a cup of coffee and hear more about how they got into their industry.
- Take care when messaging recruiters. Considering “over 90 percent of recruiters rely on the site,” according to data from the Society of Human Resource Management, you should definitely reach out to let them know you’re looking. Make sure to attach your resume and show how you can solve a problem for them. For example, send a recruiter a message about a specific position, and then outline how you will be an asset based on your background. Make it personal if you’ve met the recruiter – remind them of your specific interaction in your opening. Bear in mind they recruit many candidates, so consider this one more way to make yourself stand out.
Using LinkedIn to network and connect with recruiters will allow you to find the opportunities you might not have otherwise. To get more help on finding your next position, work with experts at PrideStaff.
