Why College Grads Should Have a Presence on LinkedIn

Many new grads have asked me should I be on LinkedIn and how can it help me?

My answer to this is a resounding YES!!!!!!

Currently statistics show that less than 20 percent of LinkedIn users are 18-24 years old.  So why aren’t they using LinkedIn?  My guess is that it is perceived as a site for “older” more experienced people and only has jobs for more experienced professionals. However, there are jobs posted on LinkedIn for interns and entry-level positions. Additionally more recruiters are using LinkedIn to source candidates than other job boards due to the reduced costs. And lastly, what a great way to make connections at companies if not through LinkedIn. 

Here are a couple of tips for getting started with Linked In:

• Have a great professional headline that says what you can do for your target audience, not just a job title.  It is your elevator speech in a few words.    This is the first thing a potential employer is going to see about you so make it appealing.
•  Include a nice professional-looking photo.  The picture should be a close up of you in a professional environment and not in a recreational activity.
• It important to have a well-written Summary that includes specific expertise, skills you have developed in college and work, and areas of interest.    Don’t be shy in this section; this is your opportunity to tell someone what you can do for them.
• Try to get at least three recommendations.  These can be from professors, past employers or even classmates that you worked with in college activities.  Make sure these recommendations address your strengths and capabilities. 
• Make connections!!! I can’t say enough about this.  These connections are the power of LinkedIn.  Connect with recent graduates and alumni from your school, professors, previous employers, colleagues and classmates.  By expanding your connections, it will help you network and find people who can assist you in your job search.

LinkedIn is a great way to highlight that a recent graduate is also a professional and would be a valuable asset to an organization.  It may seem daunting but it is worth it!!!!

To get more information on using LinkedIn in a job search, access the tutorials on LinkedIn, attend a course at your local Department of Labor or look for webinars on career sites such as ILostMyJob.com