How to use Linkedin to find a job: Tips and best practice

In today’s digital world, job searching is much more than sending out resumes. Your online presence matters, and LinkedIn is a crucial part of that. Whether you’re looking for your first job, your next job or transitioning into a new career, here are some easy-to-follow tips to leverage LinkedIn for your job search.

1. Optimise Your Profile: Make a Strong First Impression

Your LinkedIn profile is your digital resume, so you want to make sure it stands out. Here’s how:

• Use a professional photo: A clean, high-quality headshot can make your profile 14 times more likely to be viewed.
• Create a strong headline: Instead of just listing your current job title, use your headline to showcase your expertise and career aspirations. For example, “Marketing Specialist | Helping Brands Grow Through Data-Driven Campaigns.”
• Write a compelling summary: This is your elevator pitch. Highlight your key skills, achievements, and career goals in a few short paragraphs. Focus on what makes you unique.
• Keep your experience up to date: Tailor your experience to include relevant keywords that potential employers or recruiters might search for. Use bullet points to make your skills and accomplishments easy to read.

Tip: Use industry-relevant keywords throughout your profile. This increases the chances of appearing in searches when recruiters are looking for candidates with your skill set.

2. Expand Your Network

LinkedIn thrives on connections. The more relevant people you’re connected with, the more job opportunities you’ll be exposed to.

• Connect with people in your industry: Reach out to colleagues, former classmates, and industry leaders. When sending connection requests, include a short, personalised note explaining why you’d like to connect.
• Join LinkedIn groups: Participating in groups related to your industry or career interests helps you engage with professionals, stay updated on trends, and gain visibility.
• Follow companies: Follow companies you’re interested in to stay informed about new job openings, industry news, and updates. Interacting with company posts can also help you get noticed by hiring managers.

Tip: Quality is more important than quantity. Focus on building meaningful connections rather than just adding people for the sake of numbers.

3. Engage with Content

Engagement on LinkedIn is key to staying visible and relevant in your network.

• Like, comment, and share posts: Show your expertise by commenting thoughtfully on industry news, articles, and posts shared by your connections. This increases your visibility to your network and beyond.
• Post your own content: Share articles, thoughts, or updates related to your profession. For example, write about a project you’re working on, a new skill you’ve learned, or industry insights. Posting regularly helps you establish yourself as a thought leader in your field.
• Endorse and recommend others: Give and ask for endorsements and recommendations. This helps build credibility and strengthens your professional relationships.

Tip: Engage consistently, but stay professional. LinkedIn is not Facebook—ensure that your contributions remain work-focused.

4. Job Search Tools: Utilise LinkedIn’s Features

LinkedIn offers various tools designed specifically for job seekers:

• Set your profile to “Open to Work”: This feature lets recruiters know you’re actively looking for new opportunities. You can specify the types of roles you’re interested in and whether you’re looking for remote or on-site work.
• Use LinkedIn’s job search tool: Tailor your searches with filters for job title, company, location, and more. Save job searches to receive notifications for new opportunities that match your criteria. Best of all, Linkedin regularly includes jobs that aren’t advertised on seek.com.au or Indeed.
• Apply directly: Many jobs allow you to apply directly through LinkedIn, making it easier and faster to submit your application.
• Connect with recruiters: Reach out to recruiters in your industry, letting them know you’re open to opportunities. Often, recruiters will be looking for candidates with specific skills, and reaching out can put you on their radar.

Tip: Turn on job alerts for specific roles or companies to stay updated without constantly checking LinkedIn.

5. Be Active and Consistent

Consistency is crucial when using LinkedIn for job searching. Make a habit of logging in daily to engage with your network, apply for jobs, and stay updated on industry trends.

• Update your profile regularly: Make sure your profile reflects your latest achievements, new skills, or certifications.
• Monitor and respond to messages: If recruiters or employers contact you, respond promptly to show your professionalism.

Tip: Even if you’re not actively searching for a job, maintaining your LinkedIn profile and connections is valuable for career development.

Summary: Best Practices for LinkedIn Success

• Professionalism is key: Always maintain a professional tone and attitude. LinkedIn is a platform for career growth and business networking.
• Be specific in your profile: Use clear, concise language that highlights your skills and achievements.
• Stay positive: Even if you’re between jobs, focus on what you’re learning and how you’re growing professionally.

By following these tips, you’ll increase your chances of being noticed by recruiters and finding the right job for you. LinkedIn and social media are powerful tools for finding employment, but like any tool, their effectiveness depends on how you use them. Stay active, be genuine, and make sure your profile showcases your best professional self.

Need extra help in your job search? CoAct can help. Chat to our team today.