Encore Careers: 5 Reasons You Should Join LinkedIn
You’ve undoubtedly noticed that we’ve seen a tremendous change in how people network and manage their careers due to unanticipated challenges and new opportunities that surfaced during the Covid pandemic. With over 740 million individual users and a multi-faceted platform, the benefits of using LinkedIn have been amplified in unexpected ways.
Here are five reasons you should take advantage of this platform for your evolving career management needs.
1. Get Hired!
If you’re searching for new opportunities or want to explore other career options, you’ll want to begin your search where most companies and recruiters start. 57 million companies and 87% of professional recruiters use LinkedIn as a primary source of recruitment. In fact, LinkedIn currently reports that 6 applicants are hired every minute!
You have many more options available to you now that we’ve seen major shifts from the effects of the Covid pandemic. Geographic boundaries are fading and new mindsets about work are emerging. LinkedIn reaches across 200 countries so that you can find opportunities from the global community rather than traditional limitations of those that are within driving distance of your home. Search on roles, search on companies, search in other geographies… options are limited only by your imagination.
2. Get Connected!
Virtual Networking through LinkedIn
In addition to networking with your friends and colleagues, LinkedIn Groups make it easy for you to connect with people who have the same interests. The collaboration aspects of the platform allow you to trade ideas, build relationships with your connections, and stay ‘in the know’ on evolving trends.
I also use the same connection aspects for my hobbies and volunteer efforts. LinkedIn led me to this very blogging group as well as a volunteer writing gig with the American Red Cross. I’m meeting amazing people and love finding ways to give back to the world.
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3. Get Noticed!
Spotlight Your Personal Brand
Virtual meetings and virtual interviews have become far more prevalent due to the pandemic. However, these remote interactions fall short when it comes to showing our full potential. So, employers are using tools like LinkedIn to learn more about their applicants and current talent.
With carefully crafted content in your LinkedIn profile, you can spotlight your expertise, personal brand, skills, and interests. Potential employers may also look to see how well connected you are in the related industry or review recommendations on your profile for highly desired skills.
And, a little secret, the LinkedIn algorithm loves frequent updates to your profile. So, dust off your profile, make it shine, and make period updates so that you get noticed.
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4. Get Insights!
Research on LinkedIn
There is a wealth of information on LinkedIn. Use it to your benefit for current career planning by researching companies and related roles in preparation for interviews. You can also follow topics or thought leaders to stay current on leading trends.
You can also leverage linked in to strategize about your future. Peruse job descriptions for ideas on your career progression or to gain insights into various company cultures and norms. Remember, information is power. So, use research to reach your goals.
5. Get Educated!
Learn on LinkedIn
With over 16,000 courses and a free trial month, you can easily enhance your skills or learn something new. Technology, methods, and opportunities are always evolving, so a continuous learning mindset is ever important in staying up to date on modern topics. Use this feature to grow and open new opportunities for yourself.
Closing Thoughts
Proactive career management is the best way to achieve your goals and have a fulfilling career. LinkedIn’s many capabilities and vast amount of information provide a great framework for you to actively manage your career growth.
As you progress through the various phases of your career, you can leverage LinkedIn for continuous learning, research, rebranding, and connection with potential employers. Invest time in yourself and achieve your career goals.
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Meet The Writer!
Hi! My name is Terri Seydel. I'm a learner by nature and believe that all decisions begin with curiosity. When I write, I seek to nurture the reader's curiosity with intriguing content and strive to inspire their next decision. Whether the reader's intent is for education, growth, or a purchasing decision, I will help them along that journey with interesting, meaningful, and high-quality content. You can find me on Linkedin.
