5 Career Limiting Mistakes You Should Never Make On LinkedIn

Setting out on a new job search? LinkedIn the THE best way to be seen, get known and best of all, set sail on making some of the greatest and most meaningful new connections of your life, people you would otherwise never have the opportunity to even know existed before.

Don’t miss out!  But first, here’s a few what-not-to-do’s when hunting down jobs on on the high seas of LinkedIn.

  1. Not using a current photo – everyone is getting older. It’s a fact of life. Put it out there with your best smile on and let the world know you’re happy to be who you are.
  2. Using a photo that is not professional – Remember LinkedIn is not like Facebook, at all. Sitting at a restaurant table with your partner surrounded by bottles of wine and beer does not a good first impression make. Remember here on LinkedIn there are millions – yes millions, (think six degrees of separation) of would-be employers, prospective clients and potential referrals who are going to be seeing your profile at some time or another, so make it a good one.
  3. Not spending any time on your profile. The message you send is clear. You really don’t care or can’t be bothered. Okay but some of those you are competing with for jobs or sales will be taking the time to make sure that their profile targets exactly who they want influence with their LinkedIn profile.
  4. Not updating your status. Post something, even if it’s just an update to your job description or career ambitions, at least once a week. You could also join a few groups and start adding a few positive comments to a discussion or two, another very easy way to show activity on your profile. It’s a give-to-get world we live in, so show your willingness by showing your viewers that you are active and participating in their LinkedIn community. That may be the same one you find your dream job in!
  5. Not managing your privacy settings. Did you know you can tailor your privacy settings so that your new connections don’t show on your profile updates? This can be very important if you’re currently employed and don’t want others to see the tell-tale signs that you are job hunting. Unless you’re in sales, increasing your connections on LinkedIn may send the wrong message. To change what others can see on your LinkedIn profile, sign in, then from the drop down menu click settings and you’re on your way.

P.S. Want some great advice on making the best of LinkedIn? Check in with my friend Melonie Dodaro at Top Dog Social Media.

Bon voyage and happy sailing. See you again soon on LinkedIn!

Barbara Ashton is President and Chief Recruiter at Ashton & Associates Recruiting Inc. 250-574-5869
A senior executive search consultant with over 30 years experience helping businesses to hire outstanding employees.
Ashton & Associates Recruiting … Helping you hire right. Every time.

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