Learn to use LinkedIn
Facebook, twitter, LinkedIn...Ning? How can you use all these social networking tools in a job search? While Facebook has profiles of many employers and many employers use Facebook to evaluate your suitability for jobs (so make sure yours is professional or even better....private!), LinkedIn is the tool that most young professionals are using to build professional networks and to find internships and jobs.
In general, students begin using LinkedIn as juniors and seniors when your professioal plans start to come together, and you are searching for an internship or first professional job. Here are some resources to help you make smart choices:
- Attend a LinkedIn workshop offered by the Career Center or review our workshop PowerPoint.
- Watch the LinkedIn Grads Guide for students to understand LinkedIn and how it can help you.
These checklists will walk you through steps to create an effective profile.
Once your profile is established, connect with someone who can help you evaluate your profile - Kathryn Craig, Director of the Career Center or your adviser. Be sure to look for groups that share your interests - the Hiram College Alumni or Career Center group, a marketing professionals group etc. No "fans of Harry Potter" here.
Groups will help you identify others who share your professional interests, provide useful information and perhaps share ideas about career issues and potential contacts.
Learn to network, and practice good networking etiquette and these social networking tools will help you move your career forward!