Make a guess… How many users do you think are on Linked in? Statistica recently opened our eyes and announced that there are over 467 million users. That figure equates to just under the total population of the USA and UK and is growing daily.
Why do we use Linked in?
According to Jobvite around 93% of hiring manager’s search Linked-In for recruits.
40% of users use the mobile app to search jobs (expanded ramblings)
77% of all job openings are posted on Linkedin (Socialmediatoday)
The platform is growing at a steady rate which bodes well for both candidates and companies as shown in the table below (Statistica)
From the other side- why do we use it?
What it allows us to see, looking at candidate/s- the companies they have worked with – who they are connected with and how that may be either a hindrance or a help in their application in the future.What people must remember is that for everything that you can see, we can see too (If you have a public profile).
Linked in has the grand ability to trace and allow us to see who has viewed our profile.If you see a job that appeals to you, from a recruiter’s perspective these are what we are looking for:
1 – Professional photograph.2 – Good language – business language appropriate to current position.3 – Meaningful but concise description of experience.4 – Quality of recommendations.5 – Interesting input to linked-In content. (Salient responses conversations/ blogs/ articles).
What are the negatives?
1 – Spammed profiles.2 – Non reflective of individual.3 – Personal choice to abstain from linked-in. (see below)4 – Unsuitable professional picture.5 – Conflicting associations.
From a candidate view – linked in shows a side to recruitment that can provide us with questions and intrigue for an interview – you are both connected with ‘x’ company – what is your association. Read blogs and info pieces that the company have posted as well as taking time to looks at the diversity of staff.
Linked-In is predominantly a business interface, where with other social platforms it is ideal to limit the audience accessibility, linked-in st the oddball; it is advised to use public settings. But still behave as you would at a corporate event!
LinkedIn is the oddball, but still behave as you would at a corporate event
On the other end of the spectrum, some people just don’t use linked in. “Why?” I hear you says. That varies on the demographics. For the millennials, Portfolium found that the top three reasons were;1- No one to connect with,2- No resume to show off and3 – Lack of relevant content,Which are all understandable reasons – but in this case, you have to get the ball rolling. It can be a slow process but hard work pays off.
Beyond the millennials many individuals feel that it either has no value to them or they do not feel comfortable being open to abuse on a social platform.
From a recruitment perspective it gives an insight into the connections that the candidate has made. Again by utilising linked-in to the fullest extent you can promote yourself.
Ask people that you are connected with and colleagues to endorse your skills – ask previous and current employers for a reference that can be linked to your profile. Keep your details up to date and correct – input what your aims and goals are to show you have aspirations. What do you want to achieve in your current role – what have you achieved – don’t be shy when writing about what you have already achieved, but don’t brag.
Just ensure that you don’t slander anyone
So what can we take from this? Have a look at the positives and negatives above and see if you can tweak your profile to reflect your skillset and experience in the greatest light.
Who knows where it will take you…
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