If you don’t have a LinkedIn account, you are missing something important. Learn here why LinkedIn is important for your career these days. Let’s first understand the basic definition of LinkedIn. LinkedIn is a social networking site used for professional networking. LinkedIn have huge database of professional and its members use it for professional networking, online connection and job search. Users can send invite to other professionals to connect with them.

As per Forbes “LinkedIn is, far and away, the most advantageous social networking tool available to job seekers and business professionals today”. LinkedIn has more than 200 million users in over 200 countries and territories around the world.  United States alone has the largest member base with over 74 million users. That’s why it is important to have a LinkedIn profile.

It not only helps in job search but helps you to get referrals through your professional networks. You will be surprised to know that 77% of all job openings are actually posted on LinkedIn and 48% of all job openings posted on LinkedIn are not posted anywhere else. Most of the HR professionals and recruiters use LinkedIn. Now you probably know how important it is to have a LinkedIn profile so that employers can easily find you.

Creating an account in LinkedIn is easy and user friendly. It is imperative to have a profile photo to expand your connection as people will find you genuine. When you become familiar with using LinkedIn, join some of the groups on areas of your interest. You can grow your connection through this, as well as can share ideas and comments with members of the group.

It is also important to be active on LinkedIn through regular status updates showcasing your skills and knowledge about your field as it will give a positive impression to the employers. Try not to post an update which relates to your personal life or anything unprofessional as status updates will be visible on the home pages of your connection. Your updates should be general, positive and professional.

If you have a blog site, you can connect the link of your blog on your professional LinkedIn home page. It is a good way to promote your blog among your connections and build your personal brand. With a well written blog, you can demonstrate your expertise and it will also enhance your LinkedIn profile.

Nowadays prospective employers always look up online for candidate profile and LinkedIn profile rank high in search results. So, you can ensure that people looking for you will find all the information that you want them to see.  Make sure to complete your profile with complete information about your skills, awards, training, education and other relevant information.

If you need any help in building your LinkedIn profile, you can contact us at career.transit@gmail.com.