AT LONG LAST-!!! A Tool that Gets Job Seekers Oriented on How to Leverage the Networking Power of Linkedin.com!

Many job seekers for whom I provide coaching and consulting services have asked me to get them oriented on Linkedin. Given this, coupled with the video referenced below that I viewed this evening, I thought it might be helpful to memorialize some ideas for the job seekers out there.

http://internsover40.blogspot.com/2009/09/use-linkedin-to-find-job_24.html

Of course, many of the same principles can be applied for those in business or starting new businesses to find possible customers, suppliers, and business partners.

Some of the ideas tie DIRECTLY to my discussion about "A Networking Strategy that Can Really Open Doors," posted about one month ago.

There are also a few other ways to use Linkedin to find a job that were not touched upon, so I will briefly address them:

1) Look up jobs posted right on linked in by accessing the "Jobs" tab across the top left area. (This may seem obvious, but for any "newbies" to Linkedin.com, this site can be visually overwhelming, so I am pointing this out.
2) Groups: Access the "Groups" link and then "Find a Group" by entering key words that represent your industry, job category or title or generically may be of help (e.g., Businesswomen" groups). It's also a good idea to join HR, job, career, or other self-help groups (typing in similar key words). Often, jobs are posted under the "Jobs" tab of these groups (or their subgroups). I always say, when it comes to uncovering jobs, "Leave no stone unturned!"
3) To help you get an interview, be sure to ask for recommendations. One of the best ways to do this is to reach out and SELECTIVELY provide recommendations on an unsolicited basis for those with whom you've worked or otherwise done business, with whom you enjoyed working and/or respected their work. There's nothing like getting a recommendation to make someone's day, and often, if a recipient feels similarly, they may write a recommendation for you, as well. It's best not to expect someone for whom you've written a recommendation to reciprocate in return, but if they opt to "return the favor," it's always a welcome gesture, and will help build your online credibility and reputation.
4. While we all are guilty of making typos, make an effort to ensure that your profile is free of typos, complete, and compelling (it should answer the question, "Why should I contact and/or hire you?" MANY HR professionals consult Linkedin, so don't underestimate its power. Be sure to have a positioning statement at the top that provides a snapshot of who you are and what you can do for others viewing your profile. (Mine is not the "be all and end all, but if you're stumped, check it out" to get an idea of what you might include as a power statement in your profile.
5. Use the white "Update" bar on your profile page to let people know what you're up to and open to. If you are actively exploring opportunities in the XYZ industry, let your network and others who view your page know! (Note that if your settings are established properly, on a regular basis, others in your network will be made aware of what you are up to. This is a free promotional opportunity (commercial for you!), so don't pass it by!

There's so much more, but these are all very sound ways you can at harness the power of Linkedin.com to find your next great job.

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