What role is LinkedIn playing in your job search? Many job seekers don't realize that LinkedIn is one of the most powerful research and networking tools available (and without needing to upgrade to a paid membership!)
4 ways to make the most out of LinkedIn:
#1 Grow Your Network. LinkedIn is a "people search engine", and it allows you to see the breadth of your professional network by linking you not only to people you know, but to the people they know (your second-degree connections). Spend time growing your LinkedIn network with people you know from school, jobs, and clubs, aiming for at least 100 connections. Tip: Click on 'My Network' to find additional connection suggestions.
#2 Tap into the IU Alumni Network. Visit Indiana University Bloomington's LinkedIn page and click on 'Alumni.' Around 288,500 alumni should appear. Use the filters to narrow down this massive list to people who live near you, work in an industry of interest, and have graduated in the last 10 years. Take a look at the profiles that show up, then consider connecting and reaching out for a career chat. Try this strategy out on the IU College of Arts and Sciences LinkedIn page as well!
#3 Make the most out of LinkedIn's job board. While job board surfing should be a relatively small part of your job search strategy, setting up alerts will help you get the first look at job postings most interesting to you. Be sure to set your search parameter to find jobs posted in the last 24 hours. And don't forget to verify that the listing is legit by also finding it on the organization's website!
#4 Utilize LinkedIn's search bar. One way to use the search bar is by searching for posts that use the word 'hiring.' Users will often post opportunities to their LinkedIn feed to source candidates for vacancies. Searching for posts will give you access to job opportunities beyond the job board.
Stay Visible by Staying Active 👀
Posting original content, sharing posts, and commenting on others' posts are great ways to increase the visibility of your LinkedIn profile. Job seekers should consider daily activity on LinkedIn.
Follow the Walter Center 🌟
Stay connected to the Walter Center for Career Achievement on LinkedIn. Whether you are looking for post-grad career support or want give back to current IU College of Arts and Sciences students, we are eager to connect.
Take Action 🏃
Feeling uncertain about what your LinkedIn profile should look like? Want some additional LinkedIn tips and tricks? Make an appointment with a Walter Center career coach for one-on-one help.
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