Linkedin has now exceeded 50 million users. These users include companies and hiring managers from across the globe and they are all just a click away.
Many online applications take an hour to fill out and then just go to a general mailbox. It makes no sense to waste countless hours doing this when you can send a message to the hiring manager or company of your choice, with your profile, in a fraction of the time.
Your Linkedin profile is your resume. This profile is much more comprehensive and you can include many additional features that no resume could ever provide. Here is how to use your Linkedin profile to land the job you are looking for much faster than using the traditional “apply to everything” model.
First
Add the applications of your choice available in the profile section of Linkedin.
These applications will add valuable content and visual aids that a simple resume lacks.
These applications include box.net, slideshare.net, and blog link.
Companies will see the work you have done throughout your career, as well as, the work you are capable of doing for them.
These applications will add valuable content and visual aids that a simple resume lacks.
These applications include box.net, slideshare.net, and blog link.
Companies will see the work you have done throughout your career, as well as, the work you are capable of doing for them.
Box.net
Use this application to upload many different file types. Box.net will also allow your work to be found across the internet bringing many additional visitors to your profile, all of which are potential employers.
Slide Share
Use this application to upload presentations. Slide Share has the same benefits as Box.net but allows for more interactive expressions of your abilities.
Blog Link
If you contribute to a blog, which everyone should if they do not already, you can use this application to present featured entries. This gives employers crucial information about your professional capabilities including an insight into your knowledge of the industry.
These are the three applications that we suggest everyone utilize to get the most out of their profile. There are additional applications available, but these three are a good start.
Second
Find a job you are interested in, contact the "Decision Maker" within the company, and show them that you are the person for the job with your Linkedin profile.
Process
Register
Register with one or all of these
Top 10 Employment Assistance Websites
by clicking on the icon to the left.
Find a Job
Go to the jobs section and perform a search for the type of position you are interested in.
Find An Employer
After you have selected an opportunity take the name of the company and go to the “People” section of Linkedin.
In the “Title” section I suggest using the word “HR”, but you can specify any title you would like.
In the “Company” section enter the company name of the position you have located.
You can also enter a geographical location if you wish.
Then click search.
Contact The Employer
A list of professionals will be returned. Select the most relevant person that you feel will be able to either get you an interview or will be able to pass your profile to the “Decision Maker” that will be able to get you an interview.
Send a Message
If you share a group with this person you can select the option
“Add ______ To Your Network”
Select the group you share as the way you know this person. If you do not share a group with this person you can always look at their profile and join a group that they are a member of.
Message
When you send a message to this person simply state that you are interested in the specific position you saw posted online. Ask them to look at your profile and state a few highlights that would benefit their company or why you are qualified for the job. Bring attention to the applications section of your profile and the fact that it exemplifies the work you are capable of. Let them know that you would be happy to send your full resume and are available to interview.
Saving Time
This process takes about 5 to 10 minutes when you get comfortable with it. It will save you hours, days, and even weeks of time ensuring you land the position you are looking for much faster than simply filling out countless online applications. You will also be sending your qualifications strait to someone who can get you the job, rather than a general mailbox where you will get lost in the shuffle of applicants.
Additional Advice
Use Key Words In Your Profile
Your Linkedin profile is indexed by the major search engines like Google. This means that if a recruiter or HR executive is performing a search on Google or in the “People” section of Linkedin your profile has the potential of being one of the results. The more relevant keywords you use, as well as, the density of these keywords you use in your profile, the better chance you have of being at the top of their search results.
This is a great way to have companies and recruiters find you rather than you having to find them. It is estimated that between 50% to 60% of available jobs are not published. It is also estimated that 1 online job posting can get anywhere from 100 to 500 responses from applicants. Many companies would rather have their HR department search for the perfect candidate instead of spending the money to post a job, taking the time to sift through 100’s of resumes, and still running the risk of not finding the candidate they are looking for.
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