LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com) is THE professional social network. It has 133 million users in the US alone and 87% of recruiters use it as part of the candidate search. If you are searching for a job, you can't afford not to use LinkedIn.
Update your profile
Start by adding a photo. Profiles with a picture are 14 times more likely to get page views,. Then add "skills." Candidates who post skills are 13 times more likely to have profile. Make sure you list all your skills and include variations on key words to increase the chances of your profile being found.
Create a headline
When people search for you the first things they see are your photo, your name and your headline. Make your headline stand out and highlight what kind of position you are looking for. Use your headline to let people know you are on the market.
Network!
The power of LinkedIn lays in its ability to enable business people to network. Connect with everybody you legitimately know when you start your job search. These connections increase your exposure and can help you connect with second degree connections. Follow companies you are interested in working for. When you apply to a company ask for referrals from people who work there. 50% of recruiters say referrals are the best source of quality candidates!
Keep it personal
When reaching out to people on LinkedIn, remember you are communicating with a real person. Avoid the LinkedIn template text and write a personal message including how you know them if appropriate. Keep your message short and to the point though.
A career coach can help you leverage LinkedIn in your job search.
You might also be interested in reading: How to use social media in your job search.
