How to get the most out of LinkedIn

LinkedIn is a good way to network and connect with other professionals in your field. Here’s how to use the job website and tips for getting the most out of it. P.S. This page may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information.

First, sign up for LinkedIn and put in your work history.

You can add info on:

yourself, with an about section
work experience
education
licenses and certifications
volunteering
skills
honors and awards
languages
organizations
interests
causes

Take a look here at my LinkedIn page.

MORE: Prepping for a job interview

You can also leave recommendations for people you’ve worked with before. If anyone leaves you one it shows up on your profile.

Next, explore job opportunities by searching on the site. You can tell LinkedIn what you’re interested in and it will find recommendations for you.

Here are some job searching features:

You can set up job alerts and also let recruiters know you’re open to work opportunities too.

MORE: I found my current job with a simple search

I’ve used LinkedIn for job searching a few times, and I’m always impressed by it. If you aren’t sure exactly where your career is taking you, explore new paths on the site by looking at jobs others have and their career paths. You can get a lot of insight and knowledge just by researching others on the platform.

Make sure to follow people and companies you’re interested in, and you can also subscribe to newsletters.

MORE: Sign up for media consulting services!

Find more information on all of the above here, and also learn how to manage your privacy settings.