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What is LinkedIn and how do I use it?

Curriculum for Life editorial team
Curriculum for Life editorial team
Nicknamed “The Facebook for professionals”, LinkedIn is widely used around the globe as a way for professionals to connect, network and advance their careers. Read this article to understand what LinkedIn is and how to set up an account.
a phone on an orange background with the linked in app on
a laptop displaying the linkedin website
a laptop displaying the linkedin website

What is LinkedIn used for?

LinkedIn is a social network where professionals can connect with each other, showcase their professional achievements and put out asks and offers to other like-minded people to further develop their online professional presence and career. Some of the main features it offers are:

  • Professional networking. Users create their own profiles that allows them to showcase their experiences, skills, education, similar to an online CV.
  • Job searching. LinkedIn allows job seekers to find and apply for jobs, connect with recruiters and research companies.
  • Employer branding. LinkedIn is a great way for employers to raise the profile of their brand, advertise for vacancies, share company news and attract potential employees.
  • Building connections. LinkedIn is built for building networks and maintain professional relationships with colleagues, potential employers and peers.
  • Sharing content. Users can share articles, posts and videos related to their line of work as well as participate in groups.

 

How to get started with LinkedIn

Firstly, you must be at least 16 years old to have a LinkedIn account. If you aren’t 16 yet, don’t worry, these tips will still be useful for when you are ready to join.

  1. Familiarise yourself with the platform and its rules and guidelines. Then, have a look at some profiles of professionals in fields that interest you and make a note of what sorts of things they add to their profiles.
  2. Take your time making your profile, it’s the thing that everyone sees. Carefully craft your experiences and skills. Remember, LinkedIn can act like an online CV and potential employers will read it and see if you are appropriate for roles, so make sure you are showcasing yourself!
  3. Build a network. Start by connecting with people you know, and if you have any previous experience in a workplace, see if any colleagues are on LinkedIn. You can then make your search wider with people, pages or companies that interest you. Take the time to write a tailored message to each connection explaining why you would like to connect. Remember this connection could be a route into a meaningful conversation. Collaboration, mentorship or job offers!
  4. Engage with your connections. Reply to conversations, react to posts, write your own posts and share, it’s a great way to build relationships and get noticed by others.

LinkedIn is a great platform to promote yourself professionally and engage with like minded people. You can build your profile, collaborate with others and search for jobs as well as make strategic connections to help you further yourself in your career. Good luck!

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