Open To Work:
Unlocking the Power of LinkedIn for Job Search
Lets jump straight in – below are 5 super quick tips to boost your use of LinkedIn for your job hunt:
1. Signal Your Availability with the "Open to Work" Feature
A quick yet often overlooked way to boost your job search on LinkedIn is by using the “Open to Work” feature. This allows you to let recruiters or your entire network know that you’re actively looking for new opportunities. Some people are scared to let their networking know they’re currently out of work – this is the exact platform you need to embrace when you are between jobs.
LinkedIn notes that by specifying your job preferences and preferred location, your profile becomes more visible to recruiters searching for candidates. You can share preferences like job titles, workplace types, locations, start dates, and job types. Plus, you can control who sees these preferences, giving you flexibility and privacy.
2. Optimise Your Profile with Keywords to Attract Recruiters
Crafting a keyword-optimised LinkedIn profile is crucial for attracting recruiters effectively.
- Headline: Write a headline that includes keywords relevant to your target role.
- About Section: Use this section to give a brief overview of your background while incorporating relevant keywords and target roles.
- Experience Section: Instead of just copying your resume, strategically include keywords in your experience descriptions to catch recruiters’ attention without overwhelming them.
3. Align Your Skills with Desired Roles
Boost your profile’s visibility by adding relevant skills that match your target roles. LinkedIn lets you list up to 50 skills, with your top three being the most important.
To find relevant skills, look at job ads in your area of interest and include the most commonly mentioned skills and words in your profile.
4. Explore and Apply for Open Positions
Use the job board function – with millions of job openings, play with the advanced search filters to narrow down job listings by title, location, experience level, industry, and job function. Also, take advantage of LinkedIn’s job recommendations based on your profile and preferences. Set up job alerts to stay informed about new opportunities that match your criteria.
5. Network Strategically with Professionals at Target Companies
Networking with professionals at companies you’re interested in can greatly improve your job search prospects. Identify contacts or alumni connected to your target companies and reach out to request informational interviews.
Wrapping up
While LinkedIn is a powerful tool, it’s not the only way to find a job. Spend the time in optimising your profile, but focus more on exploring job listings and building your networks.
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