LinkedIn: Professional Networking

LinkedIn is a social media platform for current and aspiring professionals to connect online outside of the workplace. Developing your LinkedIn profile is necessary to expand your professional network. Many employers either find you through your LinkedIn profile or check your LinkedIn profile during the application process. Highlighting your awards, accomplishments, and experience is vital to your success in finding a good job.

When first creating your LinkedIn profile, you will be asked to create an account where you will then start building your profile. It is best to begin selecting a professional headshot that you can use for your profile picture. A professional photo with good lighting and proper angling is key. This will be the first thing that potential employers and fellow colleagues notice when they see your page. A background photo is also necessary. LinkedIn has various backgrounds that you can choose from which help show off your personality and beliefs. 

Your headline- or bio, is another thing largely looked at by my viewers of your profile. It is important to not make your headline too long, but you still want to highlight your current achievements and accomplishments. Add your current workplace, grade, post-secondary education, and any prominent/current activity you are involved in. Next, you will want to add any experience, education, awards, and volunteer work. These categories will let your future employers know what you are involved in in a professional, educational, and volunteer environment. Establishing these categories will help grow your profile and linking your work and education experience can help immensely as you grow your network.

Networking is how you can create the most views on your profile, and your network size provides clarity for your employers. You may want to begin establishing connections with people you know like friends and family. You can then expand your network to acquaintances and co-workers. Growing your network helps establish a reputable profile for your profile viewers.

Building your LinkedIn is vital to your success in an educational and professional environment. Your LinkedIn profile draws in potential employers and helps connect with your colleagues outside of the workplace.