A majority of the people have accounts of LinkedIn but not many of them actually know how to use them to the best of their abilities. Some people might wonder why should they connect with their teammates or colleagues on a social platform when they already know his profile.
However, a lot of people fail to understand how LinkedIn can change their career path. It is true that LinkedIn is used by many who wish to network and create contacts. It is as important as you create a resume for yourself. Social networking can be awkward for many due to which they don't use the platform for the full benefits.
While some may find LinkedIn overwhelming, others may find it to be confusing as ever. However, the fact is LinkedIn is the best platform for career development.
Additionally, it is a great source for people who wish to network with one another. For instance, in 2019, there were 645 million accounts that were created on the platform. Also, about 40% of the users are known to log in every single day.
Besides, there are about 30 million companies that are actually active on LinkedIn. In 2019, there were 20 million job openings too. With these amazing numbers, LinkedIn sure is a great tool for employees.
Let us look at how you can use LinkedIn for your career success.
1. Create an appealing account
First impressions are not only important in person but they are also important when using an online platform. Based on a study, it was found that 41% of the recruiters judge you on the basis of your profile picture.
When they want to have more information about you, they will open Google and hit the LinkedIn option. This is usually what they do when it comes to career-related fields.
Additionally, always remember to keep the latest picture of yourself as the profile picture. This will give the recruiters a clear picture of who you are. Usually, profiles with display pictures are considered to be real.
On the other hand, accounts with no profile picture won't be taken seriously. Set a profile picture that helps the audience connect with you.
Also, if you plan to post content, make sure to attach pictures. Post with pictures is more likely to be noticed than the ones without. Be careful about the images you choose.
2. Use the app to its full advantage
Look at LinkedIn like any other social media platform. You need to follow and engage in accounts that you are interested in. Similarly, if you are out on a job hunt, you can find the companies that interest you. Browse for companies that you would like to work with.
Make sure to follow these companies and stay updated with the latest happenings of the same. The 'companies' tab will show you all the updates which will then be on your newsfeed. If you get a chance for an interview, stay updated with the latest news of the company. This will benefit you and make you stand out from the crowd.
The LinkedIn app has a pulse tab that shows you topics related to your industry. Additionally, it also displays personalized articles for you to read. If something interests you, you can share them on your profile too.
Share interesting ideas and concepts on your profile which will gather attention. This way you can also create a personal brand for yourself.
3. Contribute to the Linkedln platform
Out of the millions of accounts on LinkedIn, there are actually less than 5% of the users that share content. When there are a majority of people logging in daily, you can contribute to new content. Also, it is a great place to share content and be noticed.
It also means you have less competition and more chances of being visible in front of the crowd. Daily, set a fixed time for yourself and try to bring up the content. It could be related to your field of work or particularly any content that relates to work.
Besides, if you find a good article, look at its comments. Look at what the users are looking for and write content based on it. This way you will help people out there. Additionally, this gives you a high chance of being noticed.
4. Network with the right people
Do you remember your school days when you were simply excited to be friends with just anyone? LinkedIn is not the platform for you to do that. It is crucial to find the right people for you to network.
Connect with people who will show you the right steps for your career. Your reach on the platform depends on how engaged and social you are on the platform.
Connect with the professionals in your field and create contacts. This will eventually help you in the long run. It is important to build yourself on the LinkedIn platform as that will help you in the way of success.
5. Once you have the network, snoop
Yes, you heard it right. One of the best ways to use the LinkedIn platform is to snoop. However, make sure to snoop only after you have done making the right networks.
For instance, if you are interested in a certain job posting. You can then find the former employees of the company. They will help you get an insight into the working environment of the company.
Additionally, you could ask them to guide you with the same. LinkedIn is also great for the other side that is recruiters. If you are on the duty of hiring and are interested in a certain candidate. If a colleague happens to know the candidate, you can know about them in much detail.
6. Be active on LinkedIn
One of the easiest ways to make the best of your profile is to be active on the platform. Chances might be you don't have any grand purpose in mind, however, that should not let you stop using the platform.
It is a great choice to be active on the LinkedIn platform. You can consistently share content or share articles to keep your account active. Keep your followers engaged and updated on your life. Similarly, post about your great work on the platform.
Make use of these tricks and tips to make the best use out of the LinkedIn platform. Sign up today.