Are you using LinkedIn yet? I’m not asking ‘Are you on LinkedIn?’, with a profile that lists your first job at Subway 15 years ago.
I mean are you using LinkedIn? That is; posting, building connections, and adding to the conversation.
No? Well, here are 5 reasons why you should be active on LinkedIn.
1. Establish a voice in the industry
There are many ways to make your voice heard on LinkedIn. The simplest way is to write posts. These could be about your work experience, a story, an inspirational quote or a thought-provoking idea. Now, this is harder than it sounds. If you need some guidance, check out this short course that covers Creating Content on Linkedin.
Did you know, writing and sharing posts isn’t the only way to make your voice heard on LinkedIn? You can also simply comment on other people’s posts. Sounds easy right? It is! By doing so, you are increasing your chances of connections by reaching a whole new network of people. Plus, everyone wants more comments and engagement, so the creator will be more than happy to start a conversation with you!
By using LinkedIn to post ideas and comments, you can show off your knowledge and credibility in the industry.
2. Build a brand = more sales
Now, we all know Instagram and TikTok are flooded with marketing. Every time you open the app, someone is trying to sell you something. LinkedIn is different.
Rather than pushing products, influencers and marketers on LinkedIn sell themselves. And you can too.
By creating a brand for yourself, you can share the good (and bad) moments of your business – whatever they may be. People appreciate candid, honest takes on LinkedIn, and they often get the most engagement.
Building a personal brand linked to your business, can lead to a sale and even help you rank your name on Google.
If you don’t have a business, your personal branding will be incredibly useful in helping you land your dream job.
This leads me to my next point…
3. Never update your CV again
One of the most annoying aspects of applying for a job is preparing a resume and cover letter. Often you may miss an important work milestone due to a stressful application process. Plus, cover letters are awkward and uncomfortable to write, often repeating what’s already in your resume.
Well, now you no longer need either of those things. If you keep your LinkedIn updated, and actively post and engage with content, you have an up-to-date resume and cover letter that is automated for you. Work anniversaries are tracked, and you can even add certificates to your profile.
The content you post can show your future employer important insights into your values, work ethic and who you are as a person. Way more valuable than a poorly written letter!
Many jobs no longer require an additional cover letter or CV – they use LinkedIn EasyApply, which allows you to apply for a job with the click of a button.
This will give you more time to prep for interview questions and complete pre-interview tasks.
4. Gain access to industry
At many workplaces, you may never meet the owners of the company. Not to mention board members, high-up managers and influential entrepreneurs. On LinkedIn, you can have a conversation with these people, essentially being ‘in the same room’.
Influential, powerful people use LinkedIn. You can access these people; their thoughts, ideas and advice, with ease – as many of them have a public profile. While they may not accept a connection request without having any relation to you – you can follow them and interact with their content (remember when we talked about comments?).
Aside from powerful, influential leaders, you can also access recruiters and hiring managers for free. Many recruiters use LinkedIn as a channel to headhunt and find employees, and many are more than happy to build their connections with job seekers. You may even spot some in your DM’s.
Not to mention, you’ll be able to deep dive into the company culture. Thinking of applying for a job but want to make sure the company will be the right fit? Well, now you can check out their LinkedIn to get a good idea of the vibe at the workplace.
5. It’s THE place to show off
Showing off is not always acceptable, and often it’s uncomfortable. In many cultures, boasting about your career achievements can seem arrogant. Not on LinkedIn.
On LinkedIn, showing off is encouraged. Everyone wants to see your best self – the award that you won, a course that you finished and the promotion you scored. So be confident and share your wins!
It could be what helps you land your dream job, or close a tight sale.
That’s the ‘Why’; – but ‘How’?
Now you know why you should be active on LinkedIn. Here are some tips on how from LinkedIn Branding expert Stanley Henry.
