LinkedIn is a great place to grow your professional network with people from different companies and industries. It is a start point to build relationships with hiring managers and recruiters. But, like any other platform, you have to use it wisely and strategically to get the best results out of it. The steps below will help you structure your plan for running your Linkedin Networking Campaign when you are actively looking for a job.
If you are not familiar with LinkedIn and Networking, here are a couple of LinkedIn courses available:
LinkedIn networking: Online Courses, Training and Tutorials on LinkedIn Learning
5 Tips how to successfully build your LinkedIn Networking Campaign
1. Find your target audience
Even if you don’t have a premium Linkedin accounts, make sure that you use Boolean Search when you look for people. Combine keywords and titles that are customised to your search. Before you start, make a list of targeted keywords.
2. Reach out to the right people
Start reaching out to people on Linkedin who are doing the job you are interested in, hiring managers in the company that you are targeting, and recruiters hiring for the specific role. Your ultimate goal is to start building a relationship with them, learning more about the future and the role. Also, they can submit your resume as a referral later, when the role is open. It’s important to network regularly and keep consistency in your Networking Campaign. Don’t ask straight away for help in finding a job (if you are reaching out to current employees)- ask for advice or network connection instead.
DO NOT SEND YOUR RESUME STRAIGHT AWAY!!!
3. Be patient- it takes time!
Networking takes some time. Make sure that you are consistent with your reach-outs.
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- To make it efficient, book time in your calendar (30- 60 min) EVERY DAY.
- Set up a target and keep track of the invitations that you’ve sent.
- From ca.100 invitations during the week, you should receive 15-20 responses.
4. Check your LinkedIn inbox every day!
If someone doesn’t follow up with you within a week- send a follow-up message.
5. Ask for an informal call
Some of your reach out will turn into informal interviews. It’s a golden opportunity to sell yourself as a potential candidate for the role.