Using LinkedIn to Search for a Job

Make sure your profile is up-to-date, accurate, and matches whatever you provide to a hiring manager or recruiter.

Stay on top of your network updates so you know if someone in your network has been promoted or switched jobs to a company where you would like to work.

Use the Advanced People search to find second- or third-degree network members who work at a desired target company. Request an introduction to those people and ask for advice or an informational interview.

Connect with everyone you have worked with, because these people know your professional capabilities well and could potentially recommend you on LinkedIn.

Make sure your profile highlights measurable accomplishments you achieved at your jobs. For example, instead of saying "I managed the sales force," say "I managed a 37% growth in revenue in the last four quarters."

Do a search and connect with as many recruiters as you can find who look for candidates in your target industry or job focus.

Use LinkedIn Company pages to see which of your network connections works at a particular company, if anyone you know has recently been promoted at that company, and specific information about the company that you need for your cover letter and interview.

Don't forget to use LinkedIn's job board. As of this writing, there are millions of postings available when you search the web on LinkedIn's job board.

If you find and apply for a job using LinkedIn's job board, see if the job poster is someone in your extended network. If so, ask for a referral or introduction to that person (or, if necessary, use LinkedIn's InMail system) so you can connect with her and make a great impression!