Congratulations graduates! Your newly awarded degree is likely a requirement for your dream job. With over 500 million users on LinkedIn, what is going to set you apart from everyone else who just graduated college with the same qualification? Your network!
Harness the power of your network, providing you an edge in your career search
What network?
LinkedIn is helping new grads from around the country tap into their professional community—whether they realize they have one already or not. LinkedIn has the power to uncover 1st and 2nd degree connections that will boost your chances of getting hired for highly sought-after jobs in a competitive market. We found that 70% of people were hired at a company where they had a connection. I’m always amazed in working with professionals and experts, the vast number of connections they can leverage on LinkedIn. With so many people getting hired, it’s no wonder networking is the #1 way to uncover opportunities.
One of the easiest ways for students to make connections is through the LinkedIn Alumni tool. It’s a simple way to explore and create alumni connections from your school. You can lean in on where they work now and in what cities. Simply search for your school and select “see alumni” to get started. You can access career paths for more than 23,000 colleges and universities worldwide. This is also a powerful tool used to research career paths of others you want to follow.
Your First Job is a First Step!
Even if you land your dream job right out of college, the most successful professionals will warn you about complacency and how it may negatively affect your earning potential over time. Searching for jobs can seem like a daunting task, especially right after you’ve just landed one. It’s ideal to continue interviewing and keep an open mind for your next career move. LinkedIn has made it easier than ever to keep your options open even when you’re not actively seeking alternative employment. It’s called Open Candidates and it’s as easy as updating your LinkedIn career interest preferences. By flipping the switch, you privately signal to recruiters that you’re interested in new opportunities. Remember also that your LinkedIn profile is an expanded version of your business card…a digital bio. People that meet you for the first time at networking events and professional conferences will head over to LinkedIn to check you out. Make sure you leave a great first impression!
What’s Next?
Create or update your LinkedIn profile today and be sure to incorporate your shiny new degree. There is no other place where you can access such a wide range of knowledge, skills and resources to help you reach your goals!
(Originally posted on LinkedIn; Written in partnership with the LinkedIn Careers Team)
