top 10 mistakes job hunting with linkedin

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Top 10 Mistakes

Job Hunting With Linkedin

By: Bill Hollandwww.mandrake.ca/bill

ca.linkedin.com/in/talentproof

www.twitter.com/talentproof


Introduction

• Wondering whether to join LinkedIn? Stop wondering and start connecting. It will cost you nothing for a basic account and the benefits can be tremendous. As with other forms of networking, the more you put in the more you get out. Not only can you expand your network of contacts in your field, you will also have an amazing resource at your fingertips to keep a pulse on what's happening in the marketplace. You can learn about different companies out there, who the players are and what people are talking about. Whether you're actively searching for a job or simply interested in networking, LinkedIn is a tool no professional should do without.


#10 – Not Joining Relevant Groups

• Joining groups is an excellent way to extend your network and make new connections in your fields of interest. Once you've joined, don't simply lurk - become active in the group. Take advantage of brand building opportunities by participating in relevant group discussions.

• ReadySet Hired! A Practical Guide to Finding a Job.I recently co-authored the book ReadySet Hired! which takes you through all stages of the job search process, from beginning to end. Easily manage your job search through a 10-step process supported by coaching comments, quick tips and dozens of online resources.Available FREE! at www.readysethired.com


#9 – Not Using The Applications

• The number of applications on Linkedin is relatively small compared to Facebook, but they can really help boost your profile and online presence. You can post presentations, conduct polls, link to your blog and Twitter, and much more. Take some time to explore and use the ones that work for you.



#8 – Posting An Inappropriate Photo

• People are naturally curious to see the face behind the name. Posting a pleasant and professional photo is the way to go. You want to present yourself as the affable and approachable person that you surely are! Save the vacation photos for Facebook.



#7 – Not Building Your Network

• Schedule time to work on building your Linkedin network. Start with people you know, including friends, family members, classmates and colleagues past and present. The more connections you have, the more people you'll have access to through them. The networking power of Linkedin is staggering, so start tapping into it.



#6 – Not Customizing Your Personal URL

• If you haven't already claimed your personal URL, do it now. Edit the default URL to include your first and last name (e.g. www.linkedin.com/in/FirstLast). Use it in your email signature, on your business card and elsewhere to lead people directly to your profile. If you have a common name, it may already be taken, so use an easy to remember variant.



#5 – Not Having Any Recommendations

• Solicit recommendations from your connections. Their statements are powerful testimonials of your work, capabilities and accomplishments. Featuring two or three strong recommendations will boost your credibility. But don't overdo it - having dozens of testimonials posted is more annoying than impressive.



#4 – Lying

• There's no fooling anyone when you put yourself out there on the internet. If you think you can get away with lying about your background and credentials, think again. Your current and previous colleagues, classmates and associates are all out there looking at your profile, so keep it real.



#3 – Having An Inappropriate Status Update

• Linkedin is a professional networking site, so keep it professional. Keep your updates relevant, interesting and informative so that your existing connections and potential ones will want to learn more about you. Save the personal and goofy stuff for Facebook.



#2 – Not Making Your Profile Public

• The point of Linkedin is to build your professional network. If your profile is not available for public viewing, then how do you expect people to find you, learn about you and want to connect with you? Privacy issues aside, if you want to be found, edit your profile setting so that your information can be made public.



#1 – Not Using It

• There's no reason why any professional shouldn't have a Linkedin account. It's free (although you can pay for service upgrades) and it's relatively user friendly. Most importantly, it's an excellent way to stay connected and build your network whether or not you're looking for work.


top 10 mistakes job hunting with linkedin

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