Tips on using LinkedIn to catch attention of potential employers

For many jobseekers, LinkedIn is where it’s at - or, at least, where it should be at. The following tips will help you whether you are already established on LinkedIn or new to the game. 1. Give off a professional appearance by customising your LinkedIn URL. The added benefit of this is you will become easier to find and the neater URL will be easily distinguishable on a CV or business card. 2. Reinforce the message of your LinkedIn profile by showcasing aspects of your work which will sell you. 3. The endorsements section of your profile can assure potential employers of your competencies within your field. Don’t be afraid to ask your network to endorse your skills or to make new skills suggestions - all it takes is one click of the + button beside the skills they’re endorsing. 4. LinkedIn groups have become one of the most effective means of modern-day networking. Sifting through posts, discussions, and job prospects will enable you to establish who the main players are in your arena and who it is you need to connect with. This is when your activity gets you noticed. Your involvement in discussions lets people know what you bring to the table, so provide answers and initiate debates. 5. The LinkedIn groups feature provides users with a platform to showcase their skills, seek out guidance from their peers, and open a gate for job opportunities - all the while expanding on their professional profile and cementing their own personal ‘brand’. 6. When deciding to join a group it’s important to establish what it is you wish to achieve by joining. 7. A key component of an effective LinkedIn group strategy is to maximise the visibility of your input. By choosing to engage in the most popular discussions, the value you bring can be easily noticed by industry leaders and recruiters etc. Sli Nua Careers (www.SliNuaCareers.com ) have offices in Athlone (090 ) 6403003, Galway, Mayo (Crossmolina and Ballinrobe ), Dublin, and Limerick. Their services include CV preparation, interview training and career direction. For more details visit www.slinuacareers.com/athlone