How LinkedIn can benefit YOU!

*LinkedIn is an online service mainly used for professional networking.

The purpose of the website is to allow registered users to maintain a list of contact details of people they know and trust in business. The people in the list are called Connections. Users can invite anyone (whether a site user or not) to become a connection.

How to Use LinkedIn to Find a Job

1. First create a profile. Create a detailed profile on LinkedIn, including employment (current and past), education, industry, and web sites.

2. Add a picture. You can add a photo (a headshot is recommended or upload a larger photo and edit it) to your LinkedIn profile. Note that it must be a small photo - no larger than 80x80 pixels.

3. Keywords and Skills. Include all your resume keywords and skills in your profile, so your profile will be found.

4. Build Your Network. Connect with other members and build your network. The more connections you have, the more opportunities you have, with one caveat from Kay Luo, "Connect to people you know and trust or have a business relationship with, no need to go crazy and connect with everyone." (More information below)

5. Get Recommendations.

6. Search Jobs. Use the job search section to find job listings.

7. Use Answers. The Answers section of LinkedIn is a good way to increase your visibility. Respond to questions, and ask a question if you need information or assistance.

8. Stay Connected. Use LinkedIn Mobile (m.linkedin.com) to view profiles, invite new connections, and access to LinkedIn Answers from your phone.

~By Alison Doyle
This list of connections can then be used in a number of ways:

• A contact network is built up consisting of their direct connections, the connections of each of their connections (termed second-degree connections) and also the connections of second-degree connections (termed third-degree connections). This can be used to gain an introduction to someone a person wishes to know through a mutual, trusted contact.

• It can then be used to find jobs, people and business opportunities recommended by someone in one's contact network.

• Employers can list jobs and search for potential candidates.

• Job seekers can review the profile of hiring managers and discover which of their existing contacts can introduce them

Author Lewis Howes gives consise detail about bettering yourself through his book "Linkedin Master Strategies"