LinkedIn

I realize that some of you are going to need a bit of convincing on this. You probably think LinkedIn is just another one of those social networking sites that the kids are using these days. Well, it's not. Actually, it's far from it.

LinkedIn is classed as a social networking site, sure, but this one is definitely for adults. To simplify it, Facebook can be likened to a gossipy water cooler chat on a Monday morning, while LinkedIn is more like a high profile, business cocktail function. And in fact, that's pretty much what it is, and if you approach it like this then you are on the right track. Just like a cocktail party, you are able to network, or communicate, with people you already know, make new connections with people you would like to know, and be discovered by those you didn't even know existed. To highlight this aspect, it was only recently that an international engineering consultancy chose its 5 final candidates for a top level role by doing professional web searches on each of them. LinkedIn was one of the search engines used for this. In this way, LinkedIn is a great positioning tool, facilitating countless job interviews and leading many to find the job of their dreams. However, with the good comes the bad, and with LinkedIn, the bad could well cost you your dream job or your current career.

It's best to keep in mind that LinkedIn is known as a job seeker paradise, so this means your boss probably knows you are a member, and he or she also probably keeps tab on your activity on the site. This is why it is best to keep your long term career aspirations to yourself! Here are a few more tips:

· Never post your full resume to your profile, this would set off warning bells with any current employer. Post just enough background information to show your rank and capabilities, then let them contact you privately.

· Lock down your network and protect your private information. You never know who's snooping around, so it's best not to give anything away.

· Don't link your Facebook or Twitter accounts to LinkedIn. LinkedIn is a professional tool, not a mass communication tool for your friends.

· Think strategically about the alliances you make. Choose one trustworthy recruiter to handle your job search, and let that recruiter do the searching for you. Remember, as great as LinkedIn can be, it could also be the professional devil if not used properly.

Though if you're reading this blog, why not contact one of our Consultants and we will ensure your job search is kept confidential.