LinkedIn is one of the most powerful tools available for networking and job searching. With over 722 million members worldwide, it provides access to a massive pool of professionals in every industry. While simply having connections on LinkedIn is useful, truly leveraging your network takes some strategy. Follow these tips to maximize the impact of your LinkedIn connections during a job search.
Expand your network
The first step is to grow your LinkedIn network. The more connections you have, the wider your access will be to job opportunities. Here are some ways to expand your reach:
- Connect with friends, family members, coworkers, classmates, and other professionals you know. Don’t be shy about sending invites – the worst they can do is ignore you.
- Join LinkedIn Groups related to your industry or interests. Engage regularly by commenting on discussions to build connections.
- Follow companies you’re interested in and connect with their employees.
- Use LinkedIn’s search tool to find alumni from your university who work in your desired field.
- Take advantage of LinkedIn suggestions for “People You May Know” based on shared connections, education, experience, etc.
Aim to have at least 500+ connections to unlock LinkedIn’s full potential. Continue growing your network over time to further broaden your reach.
Craft an informative profile
The second step is developing a robust LinkedIn profile that clearly communicates your background, skills, and career goals. Recruiters often review profiles to evaluate candidates, so yours needs to make a strong impression. Follow these branding tips:
- Use a professional headshot for your photo.
- Write an informative headline like “Recent Journalism Grad Seeking Entry-level Writing Role”.
- Flesh out the About section to summarize your experience, capabilities, and aspirations.
- Include all relevant skills, certifications, volunteer work, publications, honors, etc.
- Get endorsements and recommendations from managers, professors, or colleagues.
- Customize your LinkedIn URL to be concise and memorable.
Updating your profile fully enables you to be found by recruiters, prepares you for outreach opportunities, and strengthens your personal brand – so be thorough.
Leverage your connections
Once your network and profile are strong, it’s time to fully utilize your connections for your job search. Here are impactful ways to tap into your LinkedIn community:
- Broadcast that you’re job searching by updating your headline and About section. Connections can’t assist if they don’t know you need help.
- Join targeted LinkedIn Groups where you can engage with professionals at your desired companies.
- Follow pages for your target employers so you receive their job postings and company updates.
- Ask your connections for informational interviews to learn about their career paths and industries.
- Inquire whether your connections are aware of any open positions that may be a good fit.
- Request introductions from mutual connections at companies you’re interested in.
- Share and comment on relevant content to stay top of mind with your network.
Don’t be shy about asking for help – that’s what your network is there for. Most people are happy to assist, especially if you’re thoughtful about not spamming and provide value in the relationship too.
Apply for jobs strategically
Now it’s time to identify and apply for open roles. Mix up these strategies for a well-rounded job search:
- Look for jobs on LinkedIn’s massive job board. Follow relevant companies to see postings first.
- Search for alumni from your school working at target companies. Reach out for insider hiring tips.
- Find relevant recruiters via LinkedIn and send personalized InMail messages.
- Join niche industry or alumni groups to uncover leads.
- Check the Career Pages of company websites for openings not listed on LinkedIn.
- Follow relevant hashtags like #AccountingJobs or #BostonJobs to find opportunities.
Leverage LinkedIn’s tools, but don’t limit yourself only to their job board. Take an inclusive approach across professional networks, company sites, and job boards to find the right roles.
Showcase your candidacy
After applying, continue nurturing your LinkedIn presence to stand out as a candidate:
- Share articles and content relevant to the roles you want. Demonstrate your expertise.
- Like and comment on employers’ Pages and posts. Show your interest.
- Join alumni and industry Groups related to the companies you applied to.
- Update your headline and About section for each application. Tailor your brand.
- Ask connections who work at the company for recommendations. Build credibility.
Invest time continuing to tend your LinkedIn presence even after applying. A robust profile and thoughtful engagement can give you a leg up in the hiring process.
Conclusion
Following this approach enables you to tap your LinkedIn network for insights, leads, referrals, and more. The key is proactively managing your profile, expanding your connections, and leveraging your contacts to unlock opportunities. With some time invested, you can utilize LinkedIn connections to significantly boost your job search prospects and stand out from other applicants.