Search for the right job
Searching for the right job can be a challenge. According to Trading Economics, unemployment for the United States is at 6.7, the lowest rate recorded since 2008. This is good news for graduates, but how do they effectively search for a job that fits their skillset? The answer: LinkedIn.com.
Graduating? You should be on LinkedIn
Join the “world’s largest professional network” to find the perfect job
What is LinkedIn?
LinkedIn is a website allowing users to create a professional profile citing their past work experience, education, special skills, portfolio examples and professional interests. This opportunity comes at no cost to the user. When companies are actively searching for employees, LinkedIn is a go-to for thousands of companies. From a student’s perspective, LinkedIn is a go-to when searching for the right job.
How do students use it?
LinkedIn is the perfect resource for graduates joining the workforce. The website, founded in December 2002, the “worlds largest professional network” grew to 250 million users within ten years. According to Ohio University professor Dan Farkas, “500 out of 500 Fortune 500 companies are using LinkedIn.” If that isn’t a good enough stat, I don’t know what is.
Students must take these steps to take advantage of LinkedIn and the opportunities it provides
Making connections
Students are able to “connect” virtually with employers and employees of companies they are interested in working for. Once connected, users can look at the virtual resume of their new connection and find talking points or commonalities. This helps with the job search by giving students an opportunity to compare himself or herself to someone who is already working for that company and to better understand if that particular job would be the right one for them.
Building relationships
Sending a message to a connection is also an option. If a student sees a commonality between them and a potential employer, they have the option of reaching out to them to talk about it. This helps students create relationships, and make the transition from connection to interviewee much easier.
Display and compare your work
With so many opportunities to connect with current employers, a graduate can impress their future boss before they ever meet face to face.
“Dress” your profile to impress
Uploading samples of your work under the job descriptions is a perfect way to showcase your accomplishments. Many employers believe the, “don’t TELL me, SHOW me,” idea. This feature is invaluable and can prove yourself before you step into the interview room.
Search for job postings
Companies display job postings on LinkedIn. It is much easier to look at a company’s profile on LinkedIn and look for open jobs than to track down their Human Resources page and apply that way. Most companies allow you to submit your information through LinkedIn, cutting the time spent on applications in half.
What’s next?
If you are looking for an easy way to connect with employers and help yourself find the perfect job, LinkedIn is the tool for you. It is completely free, all you have to do is register.
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