8 Tips and Tricks for LinkedIn Power Users
I know I need to get a life, but I really do love reading other peoples articles on LinkedIn. I don’t know it all, and other people can provide useful insights. Saying that it annoys me when someone posts bad advice. This article on Mashable is a case in point. Have a read of the article. It does have some good suggestions, but here is my spin on the tips and tricks suggested.
1. Request to connect through search instead of the profile button.
This sounds like a good idea on the surface. You click on connect and LinkedIn automatically sends out it’s invitation to connect. The problem with this idea is that unless you know the person in real life, or they are a LinkedIn Open Networker (LION), then your invitation to connect will probably be ignored and may even get flagged as spam. Instead, personalise your invitation to connect and introduce yourself to the person. Let them know why you’d like to connect. It doesn’t take long to do, but will create a much better first impression.
2. Set up anonymous profile viewing to explore the network fearlessly.
I like check who has viewed my profile and sometimes use this as a way of breaking the ice when sending out an invitation to connect. I have to wonder why people want to be anonymous on a social network. It kind of defeats the objective.
Saying that people looking to vet you before making an approach may find doing this anonymously more effective.
Personally, I prefer knowing who is viewing my profile. What do you think? Do you have your settings set to anonymous?
3. Use advanced searches to hone in on the best jobs and candidates.
This is actually a great idea for all people, especially if you are looking for a specific candidate. As a job seeker, it’s worth getting to know this feature.
4. Import your email contacts as connections.
I confess, I did this when I created my account, and boy did I regret it. I’ve had so many complaints from people I know because they received unsolicited emails from LinkedIn suggesting that they set up accounts because I had. I still see the ghost accounts set up by LinkedIn, trying to get me to connect with a person who does not have a LinkedIn account. If I remember right, this is part of a class action suit in the US.
5. Make sure your profile reflects your current work and aspirations.
Keeping your profile up to date is one thing. Having a profile that reflects your aspirations is a whole different ball game. Unless you are starting out or transitioning into a new role, then what most employers actually want to know is what you bring to the table. For most businesses this means how you can affect their bottom line for example increase sales, do things more efficiently/effectively or save them money. What they aren’t interested in is your career goals.
6. Take advantage of groups.
Groups are where the action is on LinkedIn, so choose them wisely. Some groups will help validate your profile e.g. alumni and professional groups. Others allow you at network with your peers and demonstrate your expertise. If you are looking to connect with someone outside of your network, then see which groups they belong to. This automatically brings them into your network and becomes a point where you can introduce yourself.
7. Ask connections to leave you recommendations.
Recommendations on LinkedIn are seen as references in advance, and are an important part of your profile. Anyone who is a 1st degree connection can provide you with a recommendation but before you ask someone to do this for you, just think about what it is they can actually say about you. Don’t ask someone you don’t know, or who isn’t actually in a position to provide you with a reference, you may end up making the person you asked uncomfortable and losing them as a connection. Also, exchanging recommendations is a no-no. It’s easy to spot and damages your credibility.
8. Save job searches and receive email alerts.
This one is good advice for job seekers. Check out the jobs available in your field of expertise and apply early to get ahead. You can also use them to tweak your profile by looking at the keywords used by the organisation, as well as the types of qualifications, certifications and skills wanted by employers. If you have to send in a resume, remember to tailor it to the job by having a summary that mirrors what the company is looking for and highlighting achievements that meet the companies specification.
The Mashable article has some great advice, but think carefully about which pieces of advice that you use. LinkedIn is a great tool for job seekers, but it is first and foremost a social media. Building up connections is ok, but building relationships is what will get results.