7 ways to used LinkedIn to find a job

By Willie Deutsch

Looking for work or trying to find a different job? Job searching can be a full time job in itself sometimes, trying to find open positions in your field. It can be a lot of hard work. By taking advantage of the social networking site LinkedIn, you can help improve your chances of finding that job that is just right for you. Here are some ways LinkedIn can help.

1. Get recommendations 

When searching for a job, recommendations can be vital. Using LinkedIn, one can easily and quickly get recommendations from contacts.  Recommendations build trust and add credibility to your profile.  Recommendations are easy to acquire, and someone serious about job hunting should work hard to increase the number on his profile.  Recommendations matter in landing an interview and the actual hiring decision. 

2. Make connections 

The more connections you make of people you know and trust, the more likely you’ll find someone who knows someone who can help land you a job.  Building large networks has been known to land jobs.  It makes it easier for potential employers to view your profile and look for referrals.

3. Use a LinkedIn PRO account

LinkedIn PRO has added features that could aid in your job search. LinkedIn PRO automatically highlights your job application, making it stand out a bit more. You can also see who views your profile, and it can help you make contact with employers who aren’t necessarily in your network.

4. Use your profile wisely 

Your profile is what employers will look at first, so you want yours to stand out. Make sure it is current, up-to-date, and compelling. This is where you showcase your unique talents and skills.  Use a professional profile picture, and fill in as much information as possible.

5. LinkedIn resume creator 

Need some help creating a superior resume? The LinkedIn Resume Creator can help you. It takes the information in your profile and puts it in a proper resume.  As always when writing a resume, remember to use action verbs instead of passive verbs.  This maximizes words in your resume and makes it more engaging to read.

6. Jobinsider tool bar 

When looking for a job, having a contact at the company can be extremely useful. The Jobinsider Tool Bar helps you see if anyone in your network works at the company you are interested in.

7. LinkedIn jobs search 

Searching in LinkedIn Jobs can show you what opportunities are out there that would be of interest for you.     

By using the tools available on LinkedIn, you will be well on your way to finding the right connections that will hopefully land you that perfect job.

Willie Deutsch is a staff writer for the tech blog Digitizd.