LinkedIn as a platform is one of the most powerful career development tools- when you know how to use it correctly. Being so popular in the digital age comes with its fair share of disadvantages. In recent years, there has been a lot of buzz around the misconceptions of engaging in this social network. In this blog, we’ll be discussing a few common myths that are associated with LinkedIn.
- LinkedIn is for job search: One of the functions of LinkedIn is sourcing candidates. Recruiters use it all the time to find the ideal new hire for their clients. But that’s not the whole story. In a world that is becoming more virtual, LinkedIn is the place where you deliver your first impression to those who are searching for you online. And it’s also the place where you can manage your ongoing career development, doing everything from keeping the saw sharp to nurturing business relationships to demonstrating your thought-leadership.
- If I sign up for LinkedIn, recruiters will be knocking down my door: It is likely recruiters will request to connect with you and share opportunities that are currently available at their firm. That being said, this doesn’t happen every hour on the hour and in most cases, it won’t even be a daily occurrence. Regardless, you can pick and choose who to respond to based on your comfort level.
- We shouldn’t connect with the person whom you don’t know in person: Just because you have not met with an individual in person does not mean you cannot establish a connection. It’s possible you have mutual connections and that can serve as a conversation starter. Plus, if they’re in a similar industry, they’re probably sharing thought leadership and intriguing industry updates.
- Your profile is your online resume: Think of LinkedIn as your customized online website or portfolio. With a resume, you detail your accomplishments. With a custom portfolio, you show people who you are and what makes you great, all with the aim of getting them to want to know you. Your summary is like the “about” page of your website. And because LinkedIn allows you to integrate images, reports, slide presentations and videos into your profile, you can show people the value you describe in the experience section.
- You need a premium account to get value from LinkedIn: Sure, you can access people out of your network when you buy a premium license, but for most people who are not recruiters or salespeople, the free version has more power than you could ever use, when you know how to take advantage of all the features and functionality. When you explore LinkedIn’s basic features, you will start to see which elements will be most helpful to your career goals.
We hope our analysis of the fastest growing platform will be helpful for the users who are new on the platform or the people who want to use LinkedIn as a tool for finding new job opportunities.
