I’m Not Looking for a Job, Why Do I Need to Care About LinkedIn?
Let’s face it: LinkedIn is a social media account that we often keep on the backburner until we need it. You can often tell who’s actively looking for a new job when their LinkedIn account is suddenly active. But if you’re not on the prowl for a new role and find yourself scrolling through LinkedIn to see how your connections are doing, it’s easy to feel like you’re falling behind. Your former boss is giving a talk or a seminar about something you should care about while an ex-colleague just got their PhD and is starting a new job at a reputable company.
It feels like everyone’s trying to outdo one another with their achievements. But here’s the kicker: they’re not. They’re not posting as a flex or to make you feel jealous. They’re doing it to take advantage of serious perks LinkedIn has to offer its users that have nothing to do with getting a new job.
LinkedIn is Your Digital Business Card
The first thing to understand is that LinkedIn is not just a platform to look for jobs or to update your profile picture with the #Opentowork badge to let your network know so they can send you job postings or other opportunities. LinkedIn is your digital business card that helps establish your online presence. It’s like meeting the CEO of your dream company but instead of fumbling through your bag to hand them your business card (an antiquated way of networking) they can just open your LinkedIn profile and be impressed with your credentials.
You don’t need to update your profile every week. This post from Washington State University suggests, “Updating your LinkedIn profile at a minimum of once per quarter is necessary to keep track of critical projects, if you wait longer, they may be easily forgotten.”
Keep it polished with a neat summary of your experience, transferable skills and professional values. The goal is that when someone Googles you (because they will), they’ll find your LinkedIn page and not your MySpace account.
You Never Know When Opportunity Knocks (Better Be Prepared)
Sure, you may not be job hunting today, but what about next month? Next year? Don’t scramble at the last minute to be visible and make professional connections. Make sure you’re always on your previous coworkers, mentors and clients’ radar when they’re looking for a collaborator for a project or yes, an offer for your dream job. Even if you’re not looking, the right connection at the right time may be the breakthrough your career needs.
And let’s be honest, who wouldn’t jump on the chance for an interesting side project just in time when you’re strapped for cash? LinkedIn helps keep your network updated on how you’ve been doing, making it easy to keep you in their minds when there’s an opportunity.
Positioning Yourself as a Thought Leader
You might think, “I’m perfectly content clocking in at 9:00 AM and clocking out at 6 00 PM, and I’m not looking to be an industry leader someday.” But here’s the thing, posting on LinkedIn can help position you as someone knowledgeable in their field. Even if you’re not aiming to be known as a thought leader that news outlet will be calling you for your expert opinions, sharing your insights on industry news can help you get involved with the right people. Besides, it’s also an easy way to learn from other experts in your field. Also, several likes or well-meaning comments to your posts can help you build your brand as someone who knows their stuff.
LinkedIn is Like Facebook for Professional Connections
LinkedIn, above everything else, is still social media. Think of it as when you’re updating your Facebook or Instagram account on the off chance that your ex- is stalking you, you want them to see what they’ve been missing and all the good things that have been happening to you since they’ve been gone. This is the same principle you should apply to your LinkedIn. You don’t know who’s looking so, you better be prepared with a strong profile.
LinkedIn is the modern-day equivalent of your online portfolio without the hassle of creating a website. Whether you’re meeting with a potential client, a possible investor, or a recruiter, the likelihood that they’ll check you out first is high. This article from Forbes mentioned, “LinkedIn remains the go-to platform for recruiters, hiring managers, and professionals looking for potential candidates.”
Bottom Line: Build a Network That’s Not Just About the Job Search
Some individuals use LinkedIn to network and to prowl for connections who could help them “get ahead.” This is not wrong; however, this platform not only offers job opportunities but also for building a network that can help you learn and grow. You never know what conversations could lead to, even if the result isn’t a new job. Some of the best connections you’ll make are with people who share the same interests as you or with someone you have meaningful conversations with.
Remember, LinkedIn isn’t just for job seekers. It’s for anyone who wants to grow, connect and learn even while doomscrolling.
Now, go on and give your LinkedIn profile a little love. Catch the video below to help you learn how to create a professional LinkedIn profile.
