10 reasons how LinkedIn can help you with your job search.

1.      It is the #1 social media tool for business

If you are in business and not on LinkedIn, it’s like you don’t exist. This is better than Facebook stalking. You see the person’s education and career history.

2.      You can research a perspective employer before the interview

As part of your research, you know where they went to school, where they worked and a bit about their personal interests.

3.      Employers are increasingly using LinkedIn to post jobs

It’s free for users to look at and apply to jobs.

4.      You get to see how an employer is connected to you and who else works or worked at the company.

You can do your own reference checking.

5.      You get visibility outside of your local area

Because LinkedIn is international, it exposes you to potential employers outside of your area.

6.      You can leverage your connections to get introduced to an employer

You can use who you know to get closer to that dream job, employer or gate keeper.

7.      You can join like-minded groups and get the word out

If you are an expert at something, consider joining a group and participating in discussions. This is a way to showcase your knowledge.

8.      Get and share recommendations

Need job references; get your past employers to write a recommendation on LinkedIn for all to see. Need I say more?

9.      Us the company’s LinkedIn corporate page to see who else works there and the relationship.

If you are trying to access a company, take a look at their corporate page to see how else you can connect with the hiring manager.

10.  Subtle way to look for a job or to be found.

So, you’re not looking for a job or you don’t want to make it public, LinkedIn is great if you are a passive candidate or don’t want to make it obvious.  If you are getting calls for recruiters and employers because of your LinkedIn profile, this will give you information on your marketability.