In 2012, 38% of job seekers used LinkedIn to help them find a job. The network continues to be one of the fastest growing sites on the web and pages show up on search engine queries frequently. If you’re not using LinkedIn to its full potential it is time to start learning how to optimize your profile, starting with the status update. Just like Facebook, LinkedIn allows you to post a short “what are you doing?” type update as often as you like. Here are some ideas for status updates while you’re looking for a job.
- Post about events that you’re attending. You want to show potential employers that you are actively looking for a job and connecting to industry leaders and peers.
- Post about meetings with business leaders in your area. If you’ve met with someone in your community thank them publicly on LinkedIn. This will display on both their page and yours and open up new connections.
- Share links that can benefit readers. Whenever you see a tidbit of knowledge online, share the link on your LinkedIn status update. Use the 80/20 model of sharing information on the web. 20% should be self-promotion while the other 80% should be other useful links and articles.
- Share links to your own blog posts. Are you writing a blog about your passion? If you aren’t, you should start now and when you update your content share it with your network. Sprinkle these in with your other links.
- Talk about recent accomplishments. Are you finishing a class on web design? Did you earn a certificate from a tech school? Did you attend an industry conference? Have you started an organization? All of these things are great to share with your readers.
- Post about upcoming interviews. If you have a meeting with a local company, share that information with your network. You might gain some insight from people who have worked with them before and learn some new information to help prepare you.
- Ask questions related to your industry or job searching in general. If you have a question about the best way to write your resume or how to answer certain interview questions put it out on LinkedIn. You can generate conversation and interest in your profile when people feel like they can be useful to you.
Are you looking for additional tips for having the best LinkedIn profile as a job seeker? Contact the experienced recruiters at CornerStone staffing to learn more.
