Almost everyone we know has a Facebook account and some of them could be active on Twitter and Instagram as well. Many of you may also be familiar with LinkedIn, while some among you have probably already set up your account. But are you using this professional social networking site to the fullest?
Just like Facebook, this platform helps to connect people and it does extend its mileage in promoting you (yes, you!) in the professional circle of nearly every industry.
If you’re thinking of networking and marketing your professional personality to others on LinkedIn, here are a few things to consider:
Set it up and upload a good updated photo
Like Facebook, you can register for a free LinkedIn account. They do offer premium versions at different prices for different segments but the basic free jobseeking variety should suffice. One of the first things you should do is to upload a current photo that puts you in a good light and reflects your best professional persona. Remember, this is a networking exercise, so make sure the profile photo you pick is the best one for this purpose.
Make use of the resources available
It isn’t just a social networking platform to connect with other people. Jobseekers have used LinkedIn to follow organisations they’re interested in, to look for job vacancies and to discover interesting articles shared by companies and individuals alike. LinkedIn offers a lot of information, when you explore the site even further. For example, LinkedIn Pulse offers articles contributed by those in the community or from external sources, on matters related to careers and specific industries.
Treat your account as your resume, and update and share
Ensure the information on your profile is accurate and up-to-date, and is based on your work responsibilities. You can, and should, share other information such as your activities outside of the office, particularly volunteer work or involvement in charities or service organisations such as Toastmasters International and Rotary, among others.
Make the most of LinkedIn with the premium subscription
To make the most of LinkedIn’s power to connect, you could try the premium version of this social networking site. Essentially, the paid version will enable you to see who has viewed your profile and allow you to message people, who are not connected to you. The potential benefits of a premium subscription also extend to companies keen to promote their business and to recruiters eager to find the most suitable candidates.
Engage with people on your network or within specific industries
Similar to Facebook, on this social networking site, you can connect with people based on the industry you are in or any other industry you are interested in. Interact and engage with like-minded individuals and potentially get new ideas, tips or even job opportunities from being an active participant.
HR executives search the network or post vacancies on this platform
HR executives also make use of LinkedIn, aside from searching for candidates through conventional methods including probing employees of other companies. That is why it’s important to keep your details as updated as your resume. Some headhunters also post on their wall, so with that in mind maybe you should spend a little more time on LinkedIn.
Use your LinkedIn ID as a digital business card
It is the norm to exchange business cards and to establish a professional relationship during networking events or meetings. Besides using your LinkedIn ID as a digital business card, you could also add it to your business card as another tool for networking. Although Facebook also has the ability to connect people online, it seems less appropriate in a professional setting, especially if you like to share cute cat videos on your wall. Be professional. Make smart choices.
This is a weekly column by SarawakYES! — an initiative driven by Faradale Media-M Sdn Bhd and supported by Angkatan Zaman Mansang (AZAM) Sarawak — to provide advice and stories on the topics of education and careers to support Sarawakians seeking to achieve their dreams. Join us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
