LinkedIn has become a growing online networking and job search site that is utilized by various companies and organizations for the purpose of connecting like-minded individuals. College students should utilize LinkedIn as the online platform is an efficient way to network, market resumes and look for career options in various fields.
According to Omnicore Agency, there are 87 million millennials on LinkedIn today. LinkedIn makes students look more serious about their education and careers, and it allows students to display a list of their awards and endorsements that reflect their dedication to their success.
LinkedIn also allows students to establish an online presence, a factor that has become vital in job searching. Companies will search for job candidates online, but how students present themselves online can be a dealbreaker for potential employers.
Author and Psychologist Abhysheq Shukla wrote in an article that 70 percent of employers have rejected a candidate because of poor information they found online. If students maintain a positive and professional online presence, employers will be more likely to reach out to students.
Parents and professors pester students with the saying, “it’s not what you know, but who you know,” and with LinkedIn, that is true. LinkedIn allows students to connect with employers with a simple click of a button. Of course, it is not just a matter of adding a professional on LinkedIn and waiting for opportunities to fall into your lap. Students must take the initiative to stay engaged with those they connect with.
“It depends on your activities … how much influence you can leave on [employers] and take maximum opportunity to advance in your career,” Shukla wrote.
Employers can share articles on their LinkedIn pages, similar to how people share content on Facebook. The shared content is then visible to their connections and sometimes to the public. Students can share information about current topics and news within their fields or create and publish their own content on LinkedIn for future employers to see.
Students should take the time to show their genuine interest and excitement for their intended fields. A student’s opportunity to be engaged, read articles, leave a comment and interact with employers will open up new doors for their benefit.
LinkedIn is an efficient and effective way for college students to share their knowledge, skills and experiences. Students should maintain a presence on LinkedIn as a way to network and begin pursuing their career field. By doing so, students will be a step closer to achieving their career goals.
