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Your 2nd Workbook is attached to this lesson. Don’t forget to download it.
Now, we’ll start building your online brand. But first, I want to make sure you understand how LinkedIn works and what each part of your profile includes. And just in case you aren’t totally convinced LinkedIn is worth your time, here’s some things you need to know.
According to LinkedIn Talent Solutions, social professional networks are the number one source of quality hires followed by job boards and employee referrals. LinkedIn influenced hires are 2x’s more likely to be in high demand and above average hires.
Did you know that LinkedIn has actually been around longer than Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, and Instagram and it’s even more relevant now than ever.
Why? More than 500 million professional profiles are on LinkedIn. That means you can find a vast supply of network connections and job opportunities. Whether you are seeking a new job or maintaining your personal brand, LinkedIn is an important part of being a full-fledged professional in any industry today.
Here are five reasons to create a LinkedIn profile — or dust off your long-forgotten one.
1. You can tap into its powerful job board
You can search its robust job board — and even apply to jobs — through the networking platform. You can search jobs by keywords and location. Even if you’re not actively seeking new employment, you can set job alerts based on your career interests to regularly receive email updates and stay in the loop.
If you’re worried you current employer might get a hint you’re actively looking to leave, you can also be sneaky about it. If you’re connected with co-workers and managers, turn on your “I’m interested” button. This lets recruiters know you’re open to hearing about new opportunities, but LinkedIn will hide this open invitation from folks at your current company.
2. You can build your personal career brand
It’s important for you to build your professional brand online. It allows you to show how you stand out from others and highlight what makes you marketable? When recruiters or potential employers look at your profile, they should get a strong understanding of who you are and what skills you bring to the table.
3. It can help rank your name on Google
Chances are, if you apply to a job, one of the first things a potential employer will do is Google your name.
Here’s why LinkedIn is important: Ranking on Google’s first page can be difficult, but LinkedIn is a powerful network — and Google’s likes it. Because of that, it’s typically easier to get your LinkedIn page to rank on Google versus your personal website or online portfolio.
4. You can research companies and employees
Many companies maintain their own LinkedIn pages where they’ll update company information, share news and insight, and highlight current employees. You should get a good feel for its culture and its people. It’s also a great way to prep for an interview with them since you’ll know what’s currently important to them. You can also keep up with industry news too. LinkedIn takes your connections, groups and companies you follow an shows information you will find relevant on your timeline.
5. Build your network!
I can’t emphasize this enough? LinkedIn is an important networking tool. Even if you’re an introvert and hate networking events, you can still make and nurture meaningful connections. Using LinkedIn, you can build relationships with mutual connections and others in your field.
Hopefully this list convinced you LinkedIn is one of your most powerful professional tools. With it, you can build your network, search for jobs, and build your professional brand.
Downloads: SEA 30 Day Program Book 2