Using LinkedIn to Get a Job

In this article, we will discuss:

• The professional social media platform LinkedIn and why it has become so popular for job seekers.
• Advice on making your LinkedIn profile stand out.
• How to network effectively using your existing connections while building new ones.
• Pointers for navigating LinkedIn’s built-in job search.

These days, looking for a job involves going online, creating a compelling resume, and searching for work opportunities on one of many platforms. These websites range from general job boards like Indeed, where you can find jobs posted across the country in hundreds of different specialties, or more specific sites that target specific locations or job sectors, like Government Jobs. 

However, these websites primarily focus on the job application, allowing employers to list roles within their organization and manage applicants directly without much engagement from the applicant themself.

This is where LinkedIn comes in. This social media platform is designed specifically for professionals looking to build their network. Linkedin goes beyond networking – it also comes with a robust job search that is backed by the framework of your typical social media platform..

How does LinkedIn Work?

Launched in 2003 by Reid Hoffman and his team, LinkedIn was created for professionals to build their network, stay connected, and as a job search site. It grew quickly to one million users by August 2004 and continues to grow today, nearly 23 years later. 

LinkedIn works by connecting professionals to their existing networks. Once a user has created an account, not only are they able to fill in their work history and upload a resume, but they are also shown other people that have worked at their former and current employers. These connections are ranked as first, second, and third degree connections, depending on how close the user is to that connection. 

Users that worked together are able to endorse each other’s skill and leave comments about one another’s work ethics and experiences. Users are also able to write posts, share images and external links just like other social media platforms. 

This social networking set up makes LinkedIn even more enticing once its robust job search engine comes into play. Imagine – you have built your professional network, have a strong candidate profile with plenty of endorsements, and have shared compelling, relevant content to your feed all before you even apply to a job. 

For job seekers, LinkedIn provides an amazing opportunity to showcase their skills. For employers, everything they want to know about a candidate is right there, including their professional references.

Getting your LinkedIn profile set up might take a bit more time than other job boards. That’s why we’ve put together a few tips to help get you started. Whether you are a job seeker or an employer, consider the following to ensure your profile stands out, draws in connections, and gets you the job or the employees you need.

Perfecting Your LinkedIn Presence

Ensuring your presence on LinkedIn catches the attention you want is easy. 

Create a Compelling Profile

• Get Detailed: LinkedIn is a very powerful social networking platform. Do your best to fill out as many details as you can. This way, employers and other users will be able to know everything they need to make a decision.
• Share Your Experience: Add your former and current employers to your profile, including how long you worked for them to build your reputation.
• Advertise Yourself: Use the “open to work” banner to inform recruiters, employers, and the rest of your network that you are looking for work. LinkedIn allows you to specify which audience sees your interest, if you’d prefer only recruiters know that information.
• Stay Engaged: Share engaging content related to your industry or field as this is a great way to stand out to recruiters and leadership, while also keeping your profile active.

Build Your Network

• Make Connections: Connect with professional contacts, former employers, and industry contacts that supported your career so far. These connections will not only make your profile more visible, but will add legitimacy to your profile.
• Lift Each Other Up: LinkedIn allows you to add skills like “customer service” or “machining” that are relevant to your type of work. Add these skills to your profile and ask for your peers to endorse them. Of course, endorse any skills they have that you know they can do, as well. 
• Create your Community: Find people you know, even if they are not in your field or industry. The more connections you have, the stronger your LinkedIn presence will be. 

Master the Job Search Engine

• Get Specific: Browse LinkedIn’s job board for roles you are interested in. If there are specific titles, locations, or industries you are looking for, create job search alerts that let you know when new roles are posted. Don’t be afraid to get specific.
• Don’t Miss the Details: Some employers use LinkedIn to handle the entire hiring process, while others use LinkedIn as a launching point to their internal application system. Make sure to confirm you filled out the application entirely, with all of the required materials, on the correct platform.
  • Note: Pay close attention to the application requirements. Many employers require cover letters, portfolios, or other documentation outside of a resume. Don’t miss out on a job by not submitting everything they need!
• Stay Relevant: Update your resume frequently and don’t be afraid to change it up (honestly!) to match specific roles. Additionally, make sure you have an AI-friendly resume that is set up to make it easy for employers to quickly get the information they need during the initial recruiting process. 
• Make Bold Connections: If the job application allows you to message a recruiter after you have applied, take a moment to do so. A quick message thanking the team for their time goes a long way to ensuring that your name is at the top of the list.

Get the Job You Deserve

By building your presence on LinkedIn, not only will you have a stronger connection with your professional network, but you will become a more compelling candidate for the roles you are looking for. A strong LinkedIn profile can even act as a supplemental resume, especially when you’re applying for companies that have a strong presence on the website. With just a little bit of time, you can turn your LinkedIn profile into an online advertisement for your skills and experiences that supports you in your job search.

At J & J Staffing, we specialize in helping talented candidates like you find the careers you’re looking for. If you’re looking for assistance in connecting with the region’s top employers, contact us today to speak with a J & J Staffing recruiter. We look forward to hearing from you!