Yesterday, LinkedIn CEO Jeff Weiner announced that LinkedIn were acquiring the premium online course platform Lynda.com. The aim is to create a platform that combines their Economic Graph data, what skills are needed in a geographical area, and courses that meet that training need.

LinkedIn’s fundamental value proposition is connecting people to opportunity. We’ve made significant progress in this area; nearly 350 million members can use LinkedIn to find a job, build a business, and be more successful in their careers. However, matching talent and opportunity is a simplified take on the equation. Without access to education and the ability to acquire skills, many of these opportunities will remain far out of reach for most people.

Jeff Weiner 09/04/2015

The importance of professional development and lifelong learning was something drummed into me as a student nurse. And as a Registered Nurse, to maintain my registration, I was required to maintain a portfolio to demonstrate that I had completed 5 days training every 3 years. However, if I were to rely on the organisation that I worked for to achieve this, then this might have been difficult, so early on, I decided to take responsibility my own professional development and not wait for someone else to give me permission to do what I wanted to do. This has frequently meant paying for my own training and taking leave to attend courses or conferences (For example, I completed my Change Management Professional course whilst on maternity leave!). However, I saw it as an investment in me. Unfortunately, not everyone has the funds or opportunities to do this, so platforms like Coursera, Udemy and Lynda .com are a great way of helping people develop new skills for a changing work environment. With LinkedIn’s Economic Graph, you should be able to develop you career with laser accuracy, knowing which skills you need to develop in your industry and geographical area.

In the last week or so, my posts have focused on personal branding, and by taking control of your own professional development, you can take your personal branding efforts to the next level. Not only do they add to your credibility, but they show that you are prepared to go above and beyond to develop your career. This is essential requirement of a Job Magnet.

If you’d like some 1:1 help and support, then consider becoming a VIP client. My VIP package includes 13 weeks resume and LinkedIn coaching, weekly coaching calls (in person, by phone or via Skype), email support and so much. Let’s turn you from a job seeker to a job magnet!

Alternatively, why not have a read of my latest book:

Take care for now

Karen x