LINK UP WITH LINKED IN

By Emma Tynan

There is that weird come down time between the last day of school and the moment you realize thats its actually really finished, OSAP is not coming, your parents won't help you out anymore and yes... You need a job ASAP. It's crazy at how many job search sites and recruitment agencies there are at our finger tips and it can become very confusing. 


This is why I like Linkedin, this is a social network geared towards helping you network in your field as well as giving you an opportunity to browse job postings. Linkedin is as easy as signing up to Facebook and you are able link your other social media accounts to it, it offers you a space to put your CV, discuss your industry in designated groups and post updates about yourself. Based on your information, the groups you join and the people you link yourself too Linkedin  generates a daily newspaper called Linkedin Today with daily article pertaining to your professional interests. 


If you are looking for a job and are confused about where to look, start by uploading your CV to linkedin and just see who you can meet and where it takes you!





Tips for Using Linkedin

• Users with complete profiles are more likely to receive opportunities through LinkedIn.
• Use the address book importer to import your address book directly from web-based email clients such as Gmail or Yahoo! Mail, or use the Outlook address book importer.
• Get recommended and have a strong network, it builds your professional credibility and helps you get hired.
• Use LinkedIn is to research your recruiters or interviewers. You can learn more about their background to have an edge over the other candidates.
• Answer LinkedIn Expertise questions in your field. The more points of expertise you gain, the higher you appear on lists of experts.
• Use the Job Insider toolbar, these inside connections can help you through informational interviews or by introducing you directly to the hiring manager. Because it automatically shows you who of your contacts are affiliated with someone in the company or to do with that position.