From the research experts: Learning to leverage LinkedIn

Did you know there are even more ways you can make your profile stand out among the pack? Here’s the latest on things you can do to further leverage your LinkedIn profile as you look to be considered a top contender for career opportunities:

Build your network and find new connections

Use LinkedIn’s search filters to strategically search for connections:

• Type in the main search bar and click Search; an additional tab with filters will show

• Select all filters, then add additional filters such as current / past companies, schools, location (cities, regions, countries), titles, profile languages and / or contact interests

Example: Type “CFO” in the main search bar, click Enter and add another filter for location to find chief financial officers in your area. Need to be more specific? Use the industry filter to find more CFOs in your sector.

Tip: Don’t forget to update your industry marker on your LinkedIn profile if you switched positions and are now in a different industry. To update, go to your profile, edit your Intro and use the dropdown selection to change your industry. Recruiters often look for professionals with specific industry knowledge.

 

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Use the Events feature

 

The LinkedIn Events feature provides users with an easy way to network with connections and join professional meetings which interest them. Meetups, online workshops and seminars are just a few events which enable LinkedIn users to interact with their connections. Create or attend events and share them with your network and colleagues. For online events, you can add a link for a livestream or webinar. Events can be public or private (i.e., by invitation only).

To search for an event you’d like to attend:

• Enter your topic of choice in the search bar
• Filter by Events

 

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To create your own event:

• Find the Events section on the lefthand side of your screen
• Click the + button to add event details

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Stay informed

Follow organizations and individuals to gain consistent access to relevant information for your industry and / or function. If you’re interested in staying on top of things on a broader topic, consider following hashtags such as #economy, #bigdata or #innovation. You’ll be able to look beyond your own network and see what’s trending in other industries – or simply seek inspiration.

LinkedIn is one of the best tools you can use to enhance your professional experience and positively impact your professional future. Lean into its capabilities to reap the benefits of being fully engaged on the platform. Happy linking!