10 Tips to Finding a Job Using Linkedin

Linkedin is considered the premier destination for professional networking and that also includes job search activities. I have been a Linkedin user for years and have experienced it from both sides of the equation as a Recruiter and job seeker. In each instance, I have found it to be a valuable tool. Don't take your Linkedin profile lightly. It could make or break your job search.

There are 10 tips to consider when seeking to turbo charge your profile for employer related activities.

1. Your profile - Complete your profile 100%. Do not leave any sections incomplete. This will improve the likelihood of your profile being found in the search results under several of the criteria Linkedin profiles are compiled.

2. Consider Your Photo - If you are going to post a photo, make sure it is one that is flattering and by all means, no drinking photos. A general rule of thumb is a photo no larger than 80x80 pixels.

3. Keywords and Skills - Include all your resume keywords and skills in your profile, write your profile as a narrative of your experience. Don't just create a endless list of keywords. Tell your story using the keywords you have amassed over the years in a way that makes your profile easy to read.

4. Build Your Network - Connect with other members and build your network. The more connections you have, the more opportunities you have to connect with someone who might be that lead to your next position. Please, connect with people you know, professionally and socially.

NOTE: Linkedin will suspend you from sending out invites and requests to connect if you are found to be spamming other members.

5. Get Recommendations - Recommendations from people you have worked with or know of your work personally are very powerful. The good thing about writing and receiving recommendations is that it turns your profile info a living document and puts meat behind what you have written about yourself.

6. Join Linkedin Groups - This is probably one of the better features of Linkedin. Groups give you the ability to connect with professionals in like industries and areas of interest. You can communicate freely with members of the group and interact in a more person way by asking questions and posting updates. You can also search for jobs posted within the group by clicking on the group's Job Tab. A great way to get leads on employers and connect with those members who maybe part of the hiring process.

7. Search Jobs - Use the job search section to find job listings although this is not the main focus of Linkedin they do have a pretty robust job listing portal. You can also search jobs through Linkedin Groups.

8. Use Answers - If you are looking to increase your visibity on Linkedin and accelerate building your network, respond to questions in the Answers section. Ask a question if you need information or assistance you would be surprised at how open people are to sharing information. A very valuable tool for job seekers.

9. Post your Status - If you want people to get a better understanding for what you do and the projects you are working on, update your Linkedin status. Recruiters love to follow the status updates in search of keywords related to the industry in which they are seeking candidates. It is also a great way to keep your profile fresh and updates. Notably, your status updates show up on your connection's profiles as well.

10. Use LinkedIn Mobile (m.linkedin.com) - to view profiles, invite new connections, and access to LinkedIn Answers from your phone. You are no longer tied down to a desktop computer to keep your job search going.

In conlusion, you can craft your Linkedin profile to effectively play a huge role in your job search as I said before, don't take your Linkedin profile lightly, It will serve you well in your job search and professionally in the years to come.

There are more features within Linkedin that are essential to your job search activities and we'll cover them in future posts. Stay tuned!