A College Student’s Guide to Discovering the Power and

Potential of LinkedIn

By Katie Sawyer, Career Services Director, McPherson College

Why LinkedIn

• 467 Million = Total number of LinkedIn users• 1 in 3 = Number of professionals on LinkedIn• 40 Million = Number of Millennials on LinkedIn• 94 = Percent of recruiters who use LinkedIn as

part of their recruitment strategy• 92 = Percentage of jobs listed on LinkedIn

Building Your Profile

Use a professional headshot

Include keywords and descriptors

Always include at least an email address

This is the first piece of your profile recruiters and contacts will see so make sure it is accurate and professional looking

Building Your ProfileUse the summary to give a better idea of your skills, interests and experiences – think of this as your cover letter

The summary allows you to explain who you are and what you are seeking – this will need to change as your experiences and expectations change

Building Your ProfileCurrent or most recent job should be first – use the items on your resume to create a summary of job duties and accomplishments

If possible, link to the employer’s company page

Add visual examples where and where possible

This section is your resume – make sure it is complete and comprehensive

Building Your ProfileCurrent or most recent first

If possible, link to school’s company page (this will allow you to better connect with other alumni)

Your education may still be your strongest recruiting tool – use this section to showcase class work and involvement

Building Your Profile

Don’t be shy about including skills you believe you can bring to a position – others will use endorsements to add validity

Building Your Profile

Volunteering is a respected and valued part of your resume – include any and all volunteering opportunities on your profile

This is an area to show your diversity and willingness to donate your time and talents

Using LinkedIn

• Find and connect with individuals

• Join groups– Related to your major,

your industry and your interests

• Become a member of your college’s alumni network

Using LinkedIn

Follow companies to find job openings, potential contacts and valuable information about the company and its employees

Using LinkedIn

Let the site find jobs for you or simply use the search function to see what positions are available

When you are ready to begin searching for positions you can allow recruiters to contact you or simply browse the job openings posted by companies

Using LinkedInPost articles or links to keep your profile fresh and share content in line with your interests and industry

Comment on other people’s posts and publish original content you have created

Using LinkedIn

• Keep profile and information up to date – Now as you add jobs and skills– Later when you are ready to graduate– Down the road when you are employed but

looking for new opportunities• Stay active and engaged with groups and

individuals• Avoid messaging others whenever possible