Capitalize on LinkedIn Features to Grow your Network

According to data collected by LinkedIn, 85% of all jobs are filled through networking connections; yet despite this well known statistic, many students are still hesitant to leverage networking. 

One of the least intimidating places you can start is on the world’s largest professional online network: LinkedIn. With over 25% growth in users since 2019, LinkedIn remains one of the best platforms on which to connect and strengthen professional relationships. Building and optimizing your LinkedIn profile will enable you to begin reaching out to alumni, recruiters, and employers. 

 According to Omar Garriott and Jeremy Schifeling, authors of Linked: “In this community, what you find is the best of networking: People who are open to new connections, cutting across the old socioeconomic, racial, and educational dividing lines.” Connecting with individuals you share an affiliation with, like an alma mater, is a great start. LinkedIn has created the Alumni Tool to help facilitate this first step, allowing you to search alumni from virtually any school.  Reaching out to those from all schools you have attended will increase your chances of finding individuals within the companies, industries, or functions you are targeting.  Joining LinkedIn Groups can provide additional access to individuals with which to connect, often who share similar interests or affinities. 

Work with your Career Coach to better understand how to utilize LinkedIn. Schedule an appointment today in Handshake after checking out these resources:

The Job Insiders Blog

The Alumni tool – LinkedIn Video Tutorial

LinkedIn Guide to Networking

W. P. Carey Networking Model

Read More Here

By W. P. Carey Career Services Center
W. P. Carey Career Services Center