How to Make the Most Out of Your LinkedIn Account

Lindsey Pollak, bestselling author and Global Spokesperson for LinkedIn, came to Hofstra University to share her tips with students on March 13^th. She offered 5 simple tips to help college students use social media to their advantage. Here’s a recap of what she had to say.
 
Do something. Whatever you do, don’t do nothing. Even small things, such as creating or updating a LinkedIn profile will help you to stand out among the crowd. Small choices make a big impression.
 
Become an expert. Since we are all college students it can be hard to differentiate yourself from the guy next to you in class. Instead of focusing on what you’ve done, since you and your classmates will have similar experiences, focus on what you want to do. Do research on your dream job or dream company. Make sure you know what your industry is buzzing about.
For those of you who have no clue how to “become an expert” Pollak gives some advice. She recommends signing up for free newsletters from companies you are interested and setting Google Alerts for big companies and important names or terms. She also advises using Twitter and Facebook to see what your industry is up to; Follow or like companies and people, being updated on new developments helps you seem ahead of the game.
 
Clean up your online image. We’ve all heard this one before, but it really is important. Employers look and you want them to like what they see. Pollak gave this statistic, “70% of employers will reject a candidate because of information they found online.” So Google yourself, see what’s out there about you, and get rid of anything unflattering.
 

Shine Online. Another statistic for you: 80% of employers say that a positive online image leads to hiring. Connect your Facebook and Twitter to your LinkedIn, it will help your LinkedIn get more views and come up first when employers Google you.  Make sure you fill out your profile completely and update it frequently. Then add your LinkedIn profile to resumes so employers know where to look for more information. Pollak also suggests joining related groups on LinkedIn; they are a great networking tool and a way to show employers that you are serious about the industry.
 
Build an online network. Reach out to everyone you already know. Make sure to join your university’s alumni group; alumni want to help current students and other alumni.  Just remember to use the same manners online that you would use in person, be polite and be personal. Don’t send out mass messages or ask for a job on LinkedIn. Some things need to be taken offline.
 
Make sure to follow Lindsey of Twitter and connect with her on LinkedIn, she gives out copies of her book and shares career tips.