The autumn season is upon us, and with that brings open job positions. Late September and October is a peak hiring period, according to Scott Testa, COO of Mindbridge Software (via Monster.com). Whether your passively looking for a career change or currently shopping the job market, there’s no better time to spruce up your presence on LinkedIn. Most recruiters have an investment in using the LinkedIn platform to source candidates, making it the best place for you to start updating:
- Refresh your LinkedIn profile. The LinkedIn platform has added plenty of robust new features since you (most likely) last edited your profile. Add media like videos, photos, and articles that relate to your projects. If your job doesn’t lend itself to much public exposure for your field of work, then add media and articles about your company and it’s successes.
- Ask for LinkedIn recommendations. Your current and former colleagues are most likely back in work mode, between summer and winter holidays. Politely ask for a published recommendation in exchange for one in return. Choose people that can truly speak to your work ethic and admirable personality traits.
- Assess your skill set. As a LinkedIn user, you have control over the presentation of your listed skills to other users. You are allowed to organize 10 skills to be featured front and center. Take a look at your list of skills and make sure they best represent your career and future aspirations.
- Browse the community. Be brave and explore the community! I often hear people tell me they have reservations about viewing LinkedIn members in fear of being “found out”. Any working professional should feel confident about checking out other people, other jobs, and other companies. It’s actually a good thing to appear as active as possible in this space.
- Review your account settings. Similar to Facebook, LinkedIn has a very large list of personalized settings. Review your settings and make sure the right stuff is turned on and the information you want public is accessible. If you’re actively searching for a job, then consider opting into their premium account offerings.
Good luck!
