How to Further Your Career Using LinkedIn

Whether you are looking for a new job or simply want to network within your industry, LinkedIn will always have a role to play. Even if you are happy with your current employer, having an online professional presence can help or hinder your career. Instant Offices’ Head of HR, Helen Taylor, explains how recruiters look at an applicant’s Linkedin profile to help shortlist candidates. This will help when searching for your next big break. What Recruiters Look for in a Profile As a professional network, Linkedin is extremely important for showcasing an employee’s strengths and helps looking for a new challenge. When hiring, recruiters look at an applicant’s LinkedIn for several reasons:

1. To see who has recommended or endorsed an applicant. It is a good way to see who they associate with and where their strengths lie.
2. Confirming any grey areas in work history. Make sure that your profile echoes your CV as recruiters will check dates and the length of time with employers.

Helen says, “If I am unsure of anything on their CV, for instance the length of time they have worked within a particular company. If questions still need answering but overall the candidate is strong, I will still offer them an interview and ask them in person. LinkedIn still matters outside of Job Hunting Despite not looking for a new role, LinkedIn offers great possibilities for networking. Many people use their account only when they are looking for new jobs, but a relevant profile can help when attracting clients too.

1. A negative comment on Linkedin won’t derail your networking opportunities. A single comment should not affect how people view your working style.
2. By sharing blog posts and other content about your current workplace, you can increase their engagement and potentially create new business opportunities.

Helen says, “If a member of the LinkedIn community has written somewhat of a negative comment on a person, maybe saying something like ‘they are not much of a team player’, it is important to remember that it is just one person’s opinion and does not mean that it is set in stone It is common that professionals use LinkedIn in order to attract a new job and they do not update their profile with their new workplace. You must always keep your Linkedin up to date. Potential clients may look at your page and you are representing not only yourself but your current work place.” LinkedIn has so many benefits to apply to your working life. By maintaining your profile regularly, you will create new connections in your chosen field and maximise chances of being chosen for that dream job. http://www.instantoffices.com/en/gb