7 Ways to Make LinkedIn Help You Find A Job

Make LinkedIn Help You Find A Job

Career experts agree that LinkedIn is an essential job search tool. Not only can you instantly get the word out to hundreds, if not thousands, of colleagues, bosses and potential employers about your latest accomplishments, ambitions and changes in employment status, but your LinkedIn profile can also serve as a passive job magnet, since recruiters and hiring managers use the site as a gold mine for locating candidates. I worked with a LinkedIn's senior manager of communications, Krista Canfield, on the essentials of putting together a profile and making the most of it. Here's what I learned.

1. Customize your URL

LinkedIn will assign you a Web address when you create a profile, but you can write your own URL. Click the drop-down menu next to the "Edit" tab and then click on "Public profile settings." Halfway down the page, click on the blue phrase, "Customize your public profile URL." Try using your first and last name, with no spaces, and then other variants of your name. This will drive your LinkedIn page up toward the top of a Google search.

2. Write a crisp, detailed summary of your career.

Shoot for 100-300 words and try to tell a compelling story about yourself that includes specifics and quantifiable achievements.

3. Flesh out the experience section.

This is your chance to write an online resume. Many people only include their current job. Take the time to list the significant positions that built your career.

Ways 4-7 and the complete Forbes article