When I first registered on LinkedIn, I added six co-workers and two candidates. Though my network continued to grow exponentially, I was not utilizing this site to its full capacity. Now that the site has added much functionality, I believe that it has the potential to be a highly effective tool, if it is applied correctly. Below are some features and tips. Invite those you know and can help first. Begin to build your network with people who you know will want to be in your network because it will benefit them. Make it known that you are willing to connect them with other members of your inner circle. Follow through!
Invite everyone with which you want to connect
When at a party or networking event if you meet someone who you feel will add dimension to your network, invite them via LinkedIn. Even if they are not currently registered, send them your profile. The more you help this site grow, the greater a tool it will be for you.
Recommend those who have impressed you
Though LinkedIn does have a tool to solicit recommendations, I believe the best way to encourage others to endorse you is to endorse others. The power in these recommendations is authenticity. Do not hold others to an obligation to recommend you because you have recommended them. Know, however, that when someone sees that you have provided a recommendation, they will deem you more deserving.
Research your network
When you start your transition with direction and a target, you multiply your effectiveness. Once you identify your criteria, use your network to find out what companies will accommodate your criteria. Then, send requests sparingly to connect with people on the inside of those companies. Communicate your interest in their company and request information and a conversation, not a job. Let these new contacts get to know you before you make that advance.
Respect people's desire to maintain privacy
Though most people do join LinkedIn to network, not everyone welcomes unsolicited contact. Try not to judge. Find another way in before you let this frustrate or disappoint you. The reason why some people prefer LinkedIn to other online networking tools is the ability to adjust your level of availability to strangers.
Post a question/Answer a question
When your network requests fail, post a question to your network. It may take some time, but if your network is wide enough, someone is bound to provide some helpful tidbits. Reciprocally, just like endorsing someone, answering other people's questions inside and outside your network will 1) make you more deserving of answers and 2) increase your credibility in your field, as long as you choose the questions that you answer based on your strengths and professional experience.
Use it like a job board
Employers do have the ability to post their openings on LinkedIn, so check them regularly. Also, employers can search LinkedIn like a database. Complete your profile with as many details of your strengths, skills, and accomplishments as possible without making it a full-out résumé.
Karen Huller is a member of the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches. She received her Bachelors degree in Communication Studies and Theater from Ursinus College, where she minored in Creative Writing. She spent five years working in Executive and Information Technology placement firms providing research, sourcing, recruiting, resume formatting, compensation negotiation consultations, and interview coaching. Mrs. Huller started Charésumé to work one-on-one with those in transition, preparing materials such as résumés and cover letters and developing individualized transition marketing strategies. She educates her clients on the employer's point-of-view as to how to be one of the top 10% of candidates who are selected to interview and how to interview to get hired. Her mission is to be a trustworthy authority who compassionately, honestly and sincerely advises people toward a more fulfilling future.
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