“It is all about who you know.” We’ve all heard it before. Searching for a job can be frustrating, overwhelming, and extremely difficult at times. Especially if you just graduated from college. So how can you connect and network with the right people, especially in your industry? LinkedIn is an amazing tool that is worth utilizing when you’re on the job hunt.
Here are 5 ways LinkedIn can help you land you a gig.
Your profile is your resume. Use it to your advantage.
If you were a hiring manager, would you be impressed with your LinkedIn profile? If your answer is “no,” then let’s make some changes. Since there are over 39 million students and recent college graduates on LinkedIn, think of ways you can make your profile stand out. Make sure to list your skills, experience, education, awards, and contact information. Another way to make your profile more attractive is connecting with former employees and asking them to write you a recommendation. This shows recruiters your impact on previous companies.
Connect with people . . . even if you don’t know them.
Reaching out to people on LinkedIn can be a huge benefit. Pick their brain and ask them questions. (Side note: Don’t make the introduction all about yourself, but show that you are genuinely interested in their job or the company.)
You can also offer a face-to-face meeting. Dress as if you were going on an interview. Be on time, come prepared, and do your research. First impressions are key! If that person thinks you may be a great fit for their company, they will remember you and reach out to you when an opening comes up.
Offer potential employers help with their company.
Every company is constantly going through changes, whether they’re big or small. Do your research and point this out in your introduction. Ask them if they need any help throughout the process. If they say no, don’t worry! You can always leave it off saying, “If you ever need anything, let me know. I’d be happy to help.” They will appreciate this.
If there is a job opening, start connecting with people that work within that company.
Who knows the job description better than the person working for that company? If you’re looking into an open marketing position, connect with the Director of Marketing. Ask them what they are looking for in their new hire. Take notes and let them know you are interested in the position and how your experience can benefit their team.
If you don’t have enough experience, don’t freak out.
Getting an internship after college may not be your ideal situation but if you work hard, make a good impression, and go above and beyond in that role-it can lead to a full-time position. You don’t know if you will ever like something if you don’t try it, right? Go for something new and be open-minded to different opportunities. You might just fall in love with your next job.
LinkedIn has enabled me to connect with professionals across a variety of industries and helped me land my current position. Jobs are not going to fall on your lap. You need to go out there and hustle. It is going to be a lot of work, but it will pay off in the end.