Career Services

Using LinkedIn to help your job search.

Social media’s influence in the job search process is here to stay. There are daily reminders about how people’s employment or potential employment has been effected by decisions they make regarding broadcasting details of their lives on the numerous social sites. The website LinkedIn is a platform that is designed to promote information that is integral to the job search process and you can stay away from some of the negative material that can sabotage good opportunities.

LinkedIn is becoming the go to tool for employers and job seekers alike within the Kawartha Lakes market. There has been an increase in demand by clients to help access LinkedIn and to use the site as part of their job search. I have helped clients update their profile, modify their security settings and job search on the site – applying directly to positions around the province. Furthermore, my co-workers also say that people are including a link to their profile on the resumes they submit. There should be little doubt that once you have submitted a resume the employer will complete an online search for you anyway; controlling what information they will see is crucial.

LinkedIn allows you to expand the depth of the information provided to employers. The layers of information available to represent your skills, experience and other aspects of your professional profile can help employers choose you when they are searching for new recruits. The profile created allows people to see your background, so the level of detail you include is important. The endorsement process reflects your level of expertise in a skill. Having a larger network can boost the number of endorsements you receive. Your use of the site frequently can also make a difference as you update information and involve yourself in the networking aspect of the site. Being a website that reflects the professional identity of users means it is easier to keep content focused on achievements and other content related to developing your skills. You don’t have to worry about “Digital Dirt” sabotaging prospective employment opportunities.

Overall, given the growth of technology in all aspects of job search LinkedIn can be a powerful tool that you have a high level of control of to help and not hinder your job search. Using it effectively can extend your job search to new areas of interest and prospects.