5 Simple Ways to Leverage Your LinkedIn Experience

Regardless of whether you are a college student looking for internships, a recent graduate searching for your first full-time job, or an individual well-settled in your profession, LinkedIn is a platform that should be used for staying updated on your respective field, connecting with others, and job searching. Here are some ways to optimize your use of LinkedIn to get the most out of the platform.

For job seekers, it is important to look at when the job listing has been posted. Although there can be a very appealing job, if it was posted 2 months ago, chances are that the company is not actively recruiting or they have already filled the spot. This doesn’t mean that you should automatically reject older job postings but it is important to consider, especially because applying to jobs is tedious and time-consuming. There are a couple ways to minimize the chances of missing your dream job being listed without your knowledge.

1. Make checking your LinkedIn a habit. Your habits have the power to change your life. Most people check Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok multiple times throughout the day for entertainment purposes. Similarly, when job searching, check LinkedIn every day to look for new job listings, to connect with people who have your dream job, and to stay motivated.
2. Narrow down job listings with the search bar. If you are looking to be an HR intern, don’t just type in “HR summer intern” into the search bar. Instead, try “ ‘HR summer intern’ AND ‘early applicant’ ” which will provide job listings that have much fewer applicants.
3. Keep on learning! Whether that means meeting with a career consulting coach, having a mentor, or getting LinkedIn-certified in specific skills like Google Analytics, your career path is something that should always be growing. Staying ambitious and curious is key to landing your dream job.

One of the best features of LinkedIn is that it allows people to connect in a professional manner with ease. Making an effort to connect with people in your field, alumni, classmates, and recruiters should be done consistently to progress your career.

1. Just clicking “Connect” is not an efficient way to make meaningful connections; in fact, having 500+ connections means little if you do not actually initiate conversations with them. When asking someone to connect, add a personal note that introduces yourself and a shared point of connection. A shared point of connection can be having similar job roles, living in the same area, or attending the same college. You want the person you are connecting with to feel that you actually looked at their profile and that the interaction is genuine.
2. Fill out your profile. Filling out information about your education, volunteer experience, skills, clubs/organizations, and job history makes sure that recruiters get a better idea of who you are. Additionally, connecting with others is far easier when they have information present on their profile. Even if you are a student who has no prior experience, you can mention your soft skills and volunteer experience to demonstrate your interests.

If you are struggling with landing your dream job or are confused on what career path is truly right for you, Career Service Station offers many different services catered to everyone. Mentoring, mock interview calls, and resume editing are just some of the services we provide.

We encourage you to contact us for further questions and inquiries.