Job Search and Networking

LinkedIn strategies

Once you've become familiar with LinkedIn's features, you're ready to start using the site to build your network. It's important to realize, however, that everyone will use the site differently. Some people are interested in building new connections, while others remain focused on staying in touch with their network—it's all about discovering what works best for you. No matter how you plan to use LinkedIn, there are several strategies you can adopt to make the most of your time on the site.

Creating an effective profile

Your profile is the first thing people will see on LinkedIn. You should treat your profile exactly as you would a resume, taking the time to make sure it is complete, accurate, and professional. Check out LinkedIn's Introduction to Profiles to learn more about your profile page.

Your profile should contain all of the information you would normally include on a resume, such as your education, skills, and work history. But LinkedIn also allows you to add information you might not include on a traditional resume, like a profile picture and personal summary.

Review some of the different techniques below to learn how to create an effective LinkedIn profile:

• Choose your privacy settings
  Your LinkedIn profile can be as public or private as you choose. By default, your basic information will be viewable to anyone, even if they don't have a LinkedIn account. Your privacy settings will ultimately depend on how you plan to use the site. You might set stronger privacy controls if you only plan to connect with people you already know, while a more public profile may make it easier to build new connections. Visit LinkedIn's page on Settings & Personalization to learn more about changing your privacy settings.
  Choosing your privacy settings
• Use a professional photo
  Uploading a photo to your profile can help you leave the right impression. While it should still reflect your personality, the picture should be as professional as possible. Try using the same photo for all of your current social media accounts to create a unified presence across your networks.
  A LinkedIn profile page with a professional photo
• Customize your introduction
  Your headline and summary provide a quick snapshot of your skills and interests. These sections are a great place to include your personal elevator pitch—a brief introduction that explains your strengths to potential connections and employers. Visit our lesson on Networking Basics to learn more about crafting your elevator pitch.
  A personal summary
• Stay current
  Your profile should always contain the latest information about your skills, education, and work history. Update your profile whenever you take on a different position or learn a new skill. You'll also want to customize your contact preferences so people know what you're looking for.
  
  Experience, skills, education, and contact preferences
  

If you're concerned about sharing too much of your personal information on LinkedIn, such as your education and work history, consider excluding the specific dates or names of employers from your profile. See our lesson on Protecting Your Identity With a Cyber-Safe Resume to learn more.