Why use LinkedIn?
Networking- LinkedIn is a great professional tool to use for networking. Connect with users who are in your personal network or expand to include individuals who you share something in common with, such as alumni, leaders in your industry, recruiters, etc. Use LinkedIn to learn about an individual’s professional work experiences or send a message to conduct an informational interview.
Job Searching- Recruiters use LinkedIn as a way to inform job seekers of available opportunities and analytics to search for ideal candidates using keywords in headlines, summaries, and skill sections. Let recruiters know you are open to new career opportunities by turning on your career interests in the dashboard section of your profile. Utilize the jobs tab to view postings and turn on job alert notifications as a resource in your job search.
Staying Informed- Gather relevant information and stay up-to-date with your network using the newsfeed, groups you are a part of, and trends in your industry. LinkedIn offers the option to follow hashtags by typing the hashtag symbol then keywords or phrases (e.g. #finance, #analytics) in the search bar. See an article posted but don’t have time to read it? Click on the three squares icon in the top right corner of the post and save for later.
Personal Branding- Set yourself apart in a professional way online and show someone what you have to offer to them. Tailor your profile to highlight your skills and interests.
Profile Headline
Your headline is one of the first areas viewable by other users. It appears in your posts, the search bar, on your profile, and the suggested users column. With a 120 character limit, be concise and strategic about what words you use in this space. Think about your brand and what you want to be known for. What can you offer employers? What are your interests? Where is your career goal taking you?
Headline formulas:
Current position and company | Skill • Skill
Skill • Skill• Skill | Nebraska MBA candidate
Skill • Skill• Skill | Nebraska MPA candidate
Industry key word • Industry key word | Nebraska MS in Finance candidate
Skill • Skill | Seeking opportunities in [insert industry or location]
Examples:
Experienced Leader in Accounting Services
Business Architecture | Strategy Execution | Project Portfolio Management
Aspiring Intercollegiate Athletics Professional, current student at Nebraska College of Business
Systems Analyst at Conagra Brands