LinkedIn is the world’s largest professional network, some 300 million strong. That means if you are in the market for a new job or looking for new connections, LinkedIn is your candy store. The issue for many that build a profile there is that they don’t seem to get the traction or engagement they need. No one visits their profile. Companies overlook their expertise. And often times, they don’t know how to venture deep into the candy store to explore and market themselves. If it’s time for you to make a change and you want to use LinkedIn to get you there, here are a few ways to market yourself so you really get noticed:
1) Make Your Summary Sizzle
You’ll hear differentiating opinions on this one, but the majority of users that have a summary with personality are the ones that are getting noticed. We live in a world where communication is often done via the web. So if you want someone to get to know you and choose you above all else, be you. No one else — just you. You can start by answering this question for yourself in your summary: What do I want people to see in me that they won’t see in anyone else? Then answer it: I have the ability to shift a room after one presentation. Not only does this give the room what they need as far as productivity and change, but it gives me the very same thing, which is ideal in this ever-evolving industry.
You get the picture. Be bold, be authentic, be you.
2) Join LinkedIn Groups
When searching for a specific skill set, recruiters often join groups populated by those within their industry. If you’re not spending time in groups that match your expertise, it might be time to go exploring. Just bear in mind that your purpose of exploration is not to inundate other group members with promotions or emails, nor is it to step up as “that guy” that has all the answers. Your purpose is to become genuinely involved in conversations that will ultimately serve you. Think of it like this: If you have a friend that knows everything all the time, how often do you find yourself spending time with him? At some point, you step away. You stop inviting him over and engaging with him. It’s the same idea with these groups. To be a true networker, engage in a humbling, productive way. Answer questions only if you know them. Offer help if you genuinely intend to. Those that are as real as real can be are the ones other group members tell their employers about.
3) Follow Companies You Want to Work For
This is an incredible way to put yourself front and center as you search for work on LinkedIn. Not only will you learn more about the industry, but you’ll see who’s coming, who’s going, and what jobs become available at any given time. Often times, you can get on the e-mail list of these companies to track updates. In this way, you can be the first to take advantage of an open opportunity when you get the notification. Follow them to their website and opt-in to get their newsletter, too. Matching the pulse of the company can only work in your favor as you move forward in your search.
4) Write What You Know
LinkedIn has a wonderful feature that allows you to write posts, comment on other posts, and share information. This is a really great way to make mention of projects you’ve worked on in the past, or places you’ve been that would be of interest to the company. Those that output or share information are seen as self-starters. Think of how many industry leaders you can put yourself in front of that haven’t seen your profile. When you share a post or a link with a comment, you are showing initiative. When done consistently, that initiative can bring the right eyes to your profile.
There is only one thing you need to do to really make any of these tips work: Be consistent. Don’t spend one day in a group and expect something groundbreaking to happen. Visit daily. Comment daily. Search for more companies that are a good fit daily. Carve an hour or so into your calendar every day and make it happen. With over 300 million faces on LinkedIn, there is bound to be at least one that needs you.