Making the most of LinkedIn: How to put the ‘network’ in social networking
LinkedIn is technically a social networking site, but unlike other social media, it can be a useful tool to help build your professional presence and brand. LinkedIn isn’t just for networking with colleagues; it also provides a library of useful tools that can help set you apart when you are looking for a job or internship. Unlike personal social media pages like Facebook or Instagram, using LinkedIn with intention can show a hiring manager why you’re a great fit for a role.
1. Use a professional photo
This doesn’t mean that you need a headshot taken in a business suit. You can still use your LinkedIn profile photo to show off a little bit of your personality. But, don’t use the same photo you’d use for a personal social media site. Make sure you’re well-groomed, smiling, and use a high-resolution image. Don’t use a selfie—ask a friend or family member to take the photo for you. Your face should be the focus of the frame, so don’t use a full body shot, or a photo with multiple people in it.
2. Complete your profile
Once your photo is chosen, set some time aside to make sure your profile is thoroughly completed. Beyond your education and professional experiences, this is how recruiters and hiring managers can see what additional skills you have. Do you have any certifications? Are you a member of any professional associations? Be detail-oriented and consistent. LinkedIn also uses this information to fill your feed with content, which in turn will help you grow your network.
3. Network, network, network!
This is what LinkedIn is for: finding connections with mentors, hiring managers, colleagues, and more. Start by reaching out to fellow students or professors, then widen your search to professionals in your field. If you already have internship experience, add any colleagues and former leaders from those workplaces. The more people you connect with, the more LinkedIn’s algorithm will suggest potential connections to you. Don’t be shy about adding people. These connections may be the next step in helping you apply for your next role, writing a research paper, or finding a professional opportunity.
You can often find current or past ORISE participants by searching for “Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education” or “ORISE.” These connections can be an invaluable resource if you are ready to apply for an internship or fellowship opportunity or want to stay in touch as you move into your next career role.
4. Post with intention
Now that your profile is strong, and you’ve got lots of connections, continue to post at least once a week so that your name continues to show up on others’ feeds.
Do post:
- Interesting articles
- Professional milestones
- Industry insights
- Conferences you’re attending
Do not post:
- Political opinions
- Irrelevant updates
- Anything you wouldn’t want a potential boss to see
LinkedIn Tools
In addition to being a networking tool, LinkedIn also offers educational tools that can help you acquire certifications or further your professional qualifications. If you can, it’s in your best interest to take advantage of these tools.
One popular resource that LinkedIn offers for building your network is the “Find Alumni” tool. If you visit the official LinkedIn page of your college or university, you can click on the “Alumni” tab and search by a variety of filters to find connections of interest. Due to their shared connection with your postsecondary institution, these contacts are usually excellent leads to boost your networking outreach. If you want to take this strategy even further, most companies have a similar feature under the “People” tab on their official LinkedIn page.
LinkedIn Learning is a virtual education platform offered through LinkedIn in topics such as business, technology and creative industries. These courses come with LinkedIn Premium subscriptions, which start at $29.99/month, although some workplaces offer LinkedIn Learning as part of their benefits packages. If you already have an internship, ask your leader or mentor about LinkedIn Learning, and what options you have for taking advantage of their 5,000-course catalog. Any certifications you earn through LinkedIn Learning can be posted on your LinkedIn profile, which is just one more way to help your professional presence stand out.
The LinkedIn Blog offers useful tips on networking, career advancement, and how to use LinkedIn itself to your best advantage. Follow the blog to see how the professionals at LinkedIn recommend using the app to further your networking goals.
Remember: Current and former ORISE participants can also engage in networking activities through ORISE Connections. Connections is a dedicated networking platform for the ORISE community which is accessible through your Zintellect dashboard. In addition to networking capability, Connections is also home to exclusive career development resources for the ORISE community.