LinkedIn is an online social network. It is designed specifically for professional networking and is mainly used for highlighting and promoting jobs, projects and awards to develop a professional reputation.
LinkedIn also provides industry news as well as groups where relevant topics can be discussed amongst those who have signed up to them.
It is a great way of building a network and keeping a record of your professional contacts. It can help you research and plan a career path and prepare for interviews.
By using LinkedIn tools such as Search, Pulse, and Groups you can stay abreast of the latest information in your chosen field.
It is a good way of building a professional network by keeping in touch with old colleagues and contacts, as well as making new ones. It is a great way of building a network and keeping a record of your professional contacts.
People are googling you - why not give them something good to find?
1. Use a professional looking photo.
LinkedIn is much more formal than Facebook and Twitter and you aren't trying to make friends, instead you are hoping for potential colleagues or a new boss. If you really can't use a headshot, then choose something that represents you and the work you do - and not a picture of your cat.
2. Know when to use alerts.
Whenever you update your profile, all your connections will receive an alert. This can be great when you are proud of a new qualification or you want to let everyone know you have a new job. If you're going to be making lots of changes though, eg looking for a new job, it may be wise to turn off this setting. Click on Privacy and Settings to review this.
3. Use keywords.
When typing out your profile think about what keywords potential employers might enter to find someone like you. If your job title doesn't represent what you actually do then use alternative keywords instead.
4. Join relevant groups.
Primarily LinkedIn is known for its groups. Groups can be private or public. Find the ones that you are interested in to network, share experiences and in which you can learn and give your opinions.
5. Use examples of your work.
LinkedIn allows you to add a variety of media such as videos, images, documents, links, and presentations to the Summary, Education, and Experience sections of your LinkedIn profile. This enables you to showcase different projects and provide samples of your work within your LinkedIn profile.