Many people feel uncomfortable about creating a LinkedIn profile because they worry that their boss will think they are looking for another job. If you are one of those people then here are 5 good reasons why you should join LinkedIn.
LinkedIn isn’t just a job board, it’s a social networking platform and the networking part should be at the forefront of your mind. It is Facebook for business people, a place where you can have conversations without being exposed to too many cute kitten pictures.
1. Networking
LinkedIn is a great place to build a network of professionals in your field. Even if you aren’t looking for a job now, it’s good to have a network of people you can turn to if you change your mind.
You can join groups that are relevant to your field, share insights and stay up to date with what’s happening in your industry.
2. Opportunities
Just because you aren’t looking for a job doesn’t mean you should miss out on any opportunities for a better career.
There are recruiters who are paid to headhunt people who are already employed in a certain field, people like you who aren’t actively looking for a job. Headhunters are willing to pay more than you currently receive in certain cases.
LinkedIn is also good for doing research on people in jobs you would like to be in one day. Connect with them and find out what steps they took to get to where they are.
3. Easier to update your CV
Writing a CV from scratch can be a big turn off but your LinkedIn profile can make the job easier. Once you create your profile you can update it regularly with exam results or any new skills you have acquired.
Make sure to connect with people you work with so that they can endorse your skills.
If you decide to actively look for a job you only need to look at your profile to build a kick-ass CV.
4. Build your personal brand
Personal Branding is about identifying what makes you unique. You can use your skills, strengths, passion and values to separate yourself from your competitors. Your personal brand is not just who you are; it’s what you do.
By building your LinkedIn network, you’re also building your personal brand.
LinkedIn allows you to create up to three website links. You should link to your blog, your company and your Twitter profile to help strengthen your brand.
Linking to your blog or website gives the added bonus of ranking higher in search engines.
5. Become an expert
Fancy yourself as a thought leader? The best way to gain credibility in a field is to become a valuable resource. Share your knowledge in LinkedIn Groups.
Every Group post you make and question you answer is an opportunity to market yourself and to build your credibility.
You’ll benefit from being exposed to new ideas and you will also have a chance to demonstrate your expertise through commenting and discussion.
So that’s my top 5 reasons to create a LinkedIn profile. What are you waiting for?
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