LinkedIn is the biggest networking platform of this generation. When you start college, your advisor will likely encourage you to build your LinkedIn profile and grow your network. However, this can feel overwhelming at first. Here are some tips on how to master LinkedIn.
1. Set Up Your Profile
First, set up your profile. Highlight all your work and club experience in chronological order. Include descriptions of your responsibilities for each role and add relevant skills to each section. Be sure to get a professional headshot for your profile photo. LinkedIn is essentially your resume but more visual, offering you the opportunity to showcase your experience in a creative and detailed way. Make your profile the best it can be.
2. What to Post
People post a variety of content on LinkedIn. For starters, you can share recaps of your work experience or announce when you’ve been hired for a new position. You can also highlight any certifications you obtain. LinkedIn is a place to share events you’ve attended, experiences you’ve gained and more. Post anything that showcases your relevant work experience.
3. Who to Connect With
It’s a common misconception that you should only connect with people you know personally. One of the benefits of LinkedIn is that it shows when you have a connection with someone, whether through attending the same school or working at the same job. Even if you haven’t met someone, attending the same university or being part of the same organization can be enough reason to connect. Penn State has a vast network, so don’t hesitate to connect with as many Penn State students as possible. That connection may help your future career.
4. Why You Should Get Premium
LinkedIn Premium can be a huge advantage when searching for internships. Securing an internship is very competitive, and having connections at a company is beneficial. With LinkedIn Premium, you can message people without needing to connect first. This is helpful when reaching out to alumni or higher-ups at companies you are interested in. It allows you to send a message to introduce yourself, explain why you are reaching out and request to set up a call.
5. How to Find Internships
LinkedIn is a great spot to find internships. Simply type in the type of internship you’re looking for and the desired location. There’s also a feature that lets you filter job postings by timeframe so you can apply to the most recently listed positions.
6. Who to Reach Out To
Reaching out to people on LinkedIn can feel awkward, but it’s what the platform is for. Sometimes people won’t respond, and that’s okay. You will face many “nos” in life before getting a “yes.” Be persistent and keep reaching out. No one will judge you for trying to build connections and learn about the career world.
When messaging, start by introducing yourself, mentioning what you do, how you found their profile and why you wanted to connect. Then, ask if they would be open to a call if they have time. This approach is friendly, and if they want to set up a call, they’ll respond. While it won’t always lead to an internship, it helps build your network, which can benefit you in the long run.
LinkedIn is a powerful tool, and learning how to use it is essential. Don’t be shy—use LinkedIn to its fullest potential and expand your network.
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