As the holidays draw to an end, we hope you are able to make the most of the remaining days and are ready to start the new term! With many internship and graduate positions opening up soon, here is a list of tips and tricks on how to use LinkedIn as a tool for research, connect, and make your profile stand out from the rest.
1. Taking a Look at the Career Progression of Others
For those who have an idea of their dream job and are searching for part-time work during uni, a trick I’ve found to help plan your career progression is looking at the profiles of people who are currently working in that position. It can sometimes be difficult identifying the experience you wish to gain from a job or what skills may help you be an ideal candidate for employers (especially if this is your first time job hunting), but by taking a look at how others have gotten to where they are now, you are sure to gain some great insights and have an idea on which roles you should apply for!
2. Making Connections
Besides people you already know, connecting with teachers, uni alumni, or individuals who work in a field you are interested in is a good way to build your network and get your foot in the door. If you do not have any mutuals with them, you can connect by sending a personalised message introducing yourself. Don’t be afraid of asking if you can shadow them for a day, organise a coffee catch-up, or if there are any roles available you can apply for! There’s no harm in trying and you never know what opportunities you’ll find!
2. Adding Skills to Your Profile
When we think of what to add to our LinkedIn profile, work experience, internships, and volunteer experience are the first things that come to mind. However, it is important to also add any certifications or skills you have as it assists your profile in receiving more views. If you can speak another language, have an Excel certification, or are a Photoshop pro, feel free to include it and increase your presence on LinkedIn!
3. Posting on LinkedIn
Have any projects you’ve completed recently? Why not write about them on LinkedIn? This is an excellent way to have your profile be noticed by employers and gives them a more comprehensive understanding of your abilities along with what you can bring to their firm. In addition to this, it conveys to LinkedIn users what your interests are and the depth of knowledge you possess on a topic/industry.
I hope these tips were helpful and best of luck on your journey to becoming a LinkedIn expert!
By Sandra Ang (Publications Co-Director)