Your Guide to LinkedIn
So, you’re job hunting. It may be for that all important work experience, something part-time to pay the bills or that dream graduate job. In any case, maximising all of your resources is an excellent way to make sure you don’t miss out on any opportunities. One of those resources is LinkedIn. DisCUss has are here to help you make the most of it.
What is LinkedIn?
LinkedIn is a social media platform available online and on mobile that targets professionals only, focussing on networking with colleagues and employers, advertising job opportunities and encouraging discussion on a number of topical issues related to employment.
What makes it different to Facebook and Twitter?
Facebook and Twitter are largely personal spheres (though businesses and organisations take advantage of them too) meaning you’re able to share what you want when you want. LinkedIn is designed for the purpose of networking and job hunting only. It is advisable to keep LinkedIn professionally relevant at all times, there’s no need to share the fact that it’s your Nan’s birthday!
How do I use LinkedIn?
First things first, like Facebook and Twitter, you need a profile! For your profile you’ll be asked to include:
- Personal Details
- Profile Photograph
- Educational History
- Employment History
- Skills
- Additional awards or accreditations
Your profile is ranked on the strength of the information you provide- the more complete your profile, the more likely you are to get noticed! Once set up, your profile allows you to link with individuals, businesses and organisations. You can also post about topics that interest you, join groups and contact others via messages, likes and more. Plus, you can search vacancies by job title, location and company.
Additional resources
LinkedIn offers an entire page dedicated to making the perfect student profile– have a read for more top tips!