Using LinkedIn to Grow Your Career

      As we covered in our last guide, LinkedIn is a powerful tool to help you get ahead in today’s job market. This guide focuses on how to use LinkedIn strategically—so you can build connections, explore opportunities, and take your professional growth to the next level.

      Leveraging LinkedIn

      Create Your Profile

      Start by signing up for free and building your profile. Use the same information from your resume, including your work experience, education, and certifications. Make sure everything is accurate and well-organized. For more help on creating your profile, check out our previous guide Setting up Your LinkedIn Profile.

      Connect with People

      Send connection requests to former classmates, colleagues, mentors, and anyone who may support your professional journey. The more meaningful connections you build, the stronger your network becomes.

      Search for Jobs

      LinkedIn allows you to search and apply for jobs directly through the platform. You can also set up job alerts to receive notifications for openings that match your interests and qualifications.

      Follow Relevant Pages

      Follow companies you're interested in, thought leaders in your field, and professional groups. This helps you stay informed about industry trends and upcoming opportunities.

      Keep Your Profile Updated

      As you gain new skills, jobs, or training experiences, be sure to update your profile. A current profile makes you more visible and attractive to recruiters and hiring managers.

      LinkedIn Etiquette

      Even though LinkedIn is a social platform, it’s still a professional space. Here are two key principles to keep in mind:

      • Stay Professional: Write and interact as if you were in a workplace. Keep your language respectful, concise, and business-focused.

      • Be Honest: While it’s important to put your best foot forward, never exaggerate your qualifications. Accuracy and authenticity go a long way in building trust.

      LinkedIn Profile Checklist

      Use this checklist to make sure your profile stands out:

      • Full Name

      • Professional Headshot

      • Catchy Headline

      • Summary in the “About” section

      • List of relevant education, jobs, and achievements

      Building Your Network

      Think about your past and present relationships—then connect with:

      • Classmates from high school, college, or training programs

      • Current and former coworkers

      • Mentors or supervisors

      • Friends and family members

      Building Your Feed

      Follow pages that help you stay engaged and informed:

      • Companies you’re interested in working for

      • Industry-specific groups

      • Professional events and training programs

      By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to making the most out of LinkedIn. Showing up consistently, staying engaged, and presenting yourself professionally can open doors to meaningful career opportunities. 

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