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LinkedIn Workshop

Agenda

  1. Introduction to LinkedIn
  2. Building a Standout LinkedIn Profile
  3. Networking and Connecting with Recruiters
  4. Leveraging LinkedIn Features
  5. Follow Up


Introduction to LinkedIn

What is LinkedIn?

  • LinkedIn is the world’s largest professional networking platform with over 700 million users.
  • It's essential for students to start building their professional presence online.
  • Key benefits:
    • Networking with professionals.
    • Finding internships and job opportunities.
    • Learning from industry leaders.

Building a Standout LinkedIn Profile

1. Choose the Right Profile Picture

  • Tips for a great profile picture:
    • Recent and looks like you.
    • Your face should occupy around 60% of the frame.
    • Wear professional attire.
    • Smile with your eyes!

2. Add a Background Photo

  • Importance:
    • Grabs attention and sets the context.
    • Reflects what matters to you professionally.

3. Craft a Compelling Headline

  • More than a job title:
    • Reflect your role, passion, and what makes you tick.
  • Example:
    • Instead of "Student at XYZ University," use "Aspiring Data Scientist | Passionate About Machine Learning and Data Analysis."

4. Turn Your Summary into Your Story

  • Tips:
    • Don't just list skills or job titles; tell your story.
    • Explain why your skills matter and how they can benefit others.
  • Example Summary:

    I am a third-year Computer Science student at XYZ University, with a deep passion for AI and data science. My journey into tech began in high school when I developed a simple chatbot using Python. Since then, I've interned at ABC Corp, where I improved their data pipeline, resulting in a 20% efficiency gain. I thrive on solving complex problems and am driven by a desire to make technology accessible to all.

6. Declare War on Buzzwords

  • Avoid overused terms like: ‘specialized’, ‘leadership’, ‘strategic’, etc.
  • Show, don’t just tell:
    • Demonstrate these qualities through examples and achievements.

7. Grow Your Network

  • Sync your profile with your email address book.
  • Follow-up meetings and conversations with connection requests.
  • Personalize connection requests:

    Hi [Name],

    It was great connecting with you at the [Event Name]. I would love to stay in touch and explore potential opportunities to collaborate in the future.

    Best, [Your Name]

8. List Your Relevant Skills

  • Add and regularly update your skills.
  • Focus on relevant skills to your career goals.
  • Spring clean your skills list periodically.

9. Spread the Endorsement Love

  • Endorse others to get endorsed.
  • Reach out to connections for endorsements.
  • Focus on key skills relevant to your career.

10. Manage Endorsements Proactively

  • Edit your endorsements to reflect your core skills.
  • Hide endorsements that aren’t relevant.

11. Request Recommendations

  • Personalized requests work best:

    Hi [Name],

    I hope you're doing well. I’m currently enhancing my LinkedIn profile and was wondering if you could provide a recommendation based on our work together at [Company/Project]. I’d really appreciate it!

    Best, [Your Name]

  • Recommendations add credibility to your profile.

12. Showcase Your Passion for Learning

  • Add course certificates from LinkedIn Learning.
  • Update your network about your learning journey.

13. Share Media and Marketing Collateral

  • Share case studies, published papers, projects and other content that reflects your work and interests.

14. Share Relevant Content from Your LinkedIn Feed

  • Engage with your network by sharing valuable content.
  • Add your perspective to make your posts stand out.

15. Add Comments

  • Express your opinion and establish thought-leadership.
  • Well-expressed comments can raise your profile.

16. Follow Relevant Influencers

  • Keep your feed interesting and share-worthy by following industry leaders from your industry.

17. Turn on Creator Mode

  • Expand your reach and influence by creating content.

18. Check Out Collaborative Articles and Share Your Contribution

  • Contribute to collaborative articles to showcase your expertise.

Networking and Connecting with Recruiters

How to Reach Out to Recruiters:

  • Identify recruiters in your industry or target companies.
  • Craft a personalized message:

    Subject: Interest in Opportunities at [Company Name]

    Hi [Recruiter’s Name],

    I came across your profile while exploring opportunities at [Company Name], and I was impressed by the work your team is doing in [specific department/area]. As a [Your Major] student with a strong interest in [relevant field/skill], I am eager to bring my background in [specific experience or project] to [Company Name].

    I would love to learn more about potential opportunities and how I can contribute to your team. Could we possibly connect for a brief chat?

    Thank you for your time and consideration.

    Best regards,
    [Your Name]
    [LinkedIn Profile URL]

  • Follow-Up Strategy:

    • Wait for a week before following up.
    • Example follow-up message:

    Hi [Recruiter’s Name],

    I wanted to follow up on my previous message regarding opportunities at [Company Name].

    I am very interested in learning more about how I can contribute to your team and would appreciate any advice you could provide.

    Looking forward to your response.

    Best regards,
    [Your Name]


Leveraging LinkedIn Features

Spotlight:

  • LinkedIn Learning: Enhance your profile with certifications.
  • LinkedIn Groups: Join and participate in groups relevant to your field.
  • LinkedIn Events: Attend and network at events hosted on LinkedIn.
  • Open to Work: Signal to recruiters that you’re open to new opportunities.

Creator Mode:

  • Expand your reach by regularly posting valuable content.
  • Utilize tools like LinkedIn Live and LinkedIn Newsletters.

Service Pages:

  • For freelancers and small business owners, highlight your services.

Follow Up

More resources to boost your LinkedIn Profile: