Quick Tip- Using Linkedin to find your next job

If you are a regular reader of this blog you may be wondering why I keep writing about Linkedin for job hunting. The answer is really simple. Linkedin is hands down the best way (in my opinion) to find a job now and also the best way for employers to find candidates. A couple of months back, Linkedin launched a new service geared towards the job seeker. For a small monthly fee they offer various services to make it easier for the job seeker to connect with employers.

The cheapest service starts at $19.95 a month and with this package you are able to move up to the top of the list as a featured applicant. This feature is huge, with some many people competing for jobs, anything you can do to stand out from the crowd is important. Other features include, seeing the entire profile of hiring managers and premium job searching. The more expensive packages include the ability to send inmails and connect directly with the hiring managers. The most expensive package is priced at $49.95 a month.

I think this is worth it and I am a huge proponent and investing in yourself and career. With that being said, I do think you can achieve similar results through Linkedin for Free. My advice would be to create your target list of companies that you want to work for and then search for recruiters or Hr Managers from that company. Next step is to craft a well written note and click on the link that says “Add ____ to your network” and send your note.

Do not just send the standard greeting, you will be more successful if you customize your introduction, instead of the standard “I would like to add you to my network” Do not ask for an interview or sell yourself at this stage, that will come later. The first couple of encounters should be done in an effort to build a relationship. Once the foundation has been built you can then start working towards discussing job prospects.

Either way you choose the paid option or the free work around, the take away here is to include Linkedin as a primary source in your job search strategy.

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