LinkedIn: I'm Here ... What Do I Use It For??

LinkedIn is a social networking platform designed to connect professionals, businesses, organizations, and job seekers. Unlike other social media sites, LinkedIn focuses on career development, industry networking, and showcasing your professional brand.

 

Key Purposes of LinkedIn:

• Be Present / Demonstrate Expertise: Build your digital résumé. Don’t join LinkedIn if you can’t share your information or if you’re never going to log back in once you’ve built your profile!

• Networking: Connect with colleagues, industry leaders, potential employers, like-minded professionals, and organizations that interest you (it’s a great way to investigate volunteer opportunities too).

• Career Development: Explore job opportunities, research companies, and showcase your skills and experience.

• Building Your Brand: Establish yourself as an expert in your field by sharing content, engaging in discussions, and building a strong professional profile.

• Business Growth: Generate leads, promote your company, and connect with potential clients and partners.

 

Whether you're looking for a new job; curious about what else is going on in your industry; seeking to expand your network; or aiming to establish a presence in your industry, LinkedIn provides an array of tools and resources. Keep in mind though, it's important to understand its intended purpose. 

 

LinkedIn is not meant to be used for:   

• Personal updates and oversharing: LinkedIn is not the place to share personal photos, family news, or daily life updates unless they have a direct professional connection (e.g., attending an industry event with colleagues). Of course, there can be exceptions to this for the right occasion, but remember, LinkedIn is not meant to be Facebook or Instagram.

• Mass connection requests: Focus on building purposeful relationships, not numbers.   

• Engaging in heated debates or controversial discussions: While sharing opinions on industry-related topics is acceptable, LinkedIn is not the platform for engaging in personal attacks, political arguments, or other forms of online conflict.

• Spamming connections with irrelevant content or sales pitches: Avoid sending unsolicited messages or repeatedly posting irrelevant content that doesn't provide value to your network.   

• Misrepresenting yourself or your qualifications: Honesty is as crucial on LinkedIn as it is on your résumé. Avoid exaggerating your skills, experience, or accomplishments.   

• Sharing confidential or sensitive information: Avoid posting confidential company information, private client details, or anything that could compromise your employer or your professional reputation.

By understanding the purpose of LinkedIn, you can use the platform effectively and maintain a professional online presence without jeopardizing your reputation.