LinkedIn is undoubtably the number one online social networking site in the world. It is not industry specific, and with its global reach there is nearly no end to the potential connections you can make. In an ongoing climate of uncertainty with to face to face meetings, a booming global jobs market, and virtual networking it has become invaluable.

Here’s some of our top reasons you should be using it, whether you are actively looking for work, wanting to learn more about your industry, or progress in your current position. 

Share and Learn With Your Peers

Not only is LinkedIn a great place to network, it is a great source of information. You can find articles written by some of the top thought leaders in industries around the world and join groups related to your work to learn and share. Reading articles and asking questions can be a really easy way to keep up to date with the latest trends in, and related to, your industry.

Another great new addition to LinkedIn are the skill assessments you can take to earn a certificate to add to your profile to show your proficiency. For a full list  click here.

Ready Made CV  

LinkedIn can work for you as a CV or resume template. There are, however, pros and cons to this. Filling in your LinkedIn profile is a simple enough process but it can be fairly time consuming. There are a lot of sections and you need to fill them all in in order to have a chance at being found. When you’ve done this though, you’ll have a personal statement, basis for a cover letter and a full list of your job history, experience, and skills all completed and easily updated.

To further this, you can get involved with conversations on industry topics and post your own thoughts and articles to show your interests inside and outside your profession.

In need of some inspiration? Check out some examples of great linked in profiles here

A Good LinkedIn Profile Gives You A Headstart 

On your marks, get set, GO!

Even if you aren’t actively looking for a new job or promotion, when you keep your profile updated with new skills or recommendations. These can come from employers and co-workers you are keeping yourself ready for any sudden changes or opportunities that come your way. With a reach spanning approximately 200 countries, you can keep your online CV in top condition discretely while keeping yourself open to opportunities should the right one come along. 

It’s not just useful for jobseekers, as an employer you can easily make long term connections and reach out to promising talent as you discover it. 

Just starting out? Here’s some more tips on how to use Linked In to get a job.

 But wait … 

… A Word of Warning 

Hopefully this article has given you a few pointers to either start your LinkedIn profile or to think about polishing it up.

Some things you need to consider are:

• Make sure you remember it is a social networking site. So remember your employers past, present and future could see it.
• Any links to other social sites should be treated with caution too.
• There are pros and cons as there to any online profile, so make sure you do your research and respect the security of own and other people’s information.

Any questions? Get in touch, as experts in finding jobs for jobseekers and candidates for employers we’d be happy to help.