Hey! This blog is much better when you watch the demo video that shows you exactly what to do on LinkedIn to widen your network. Watch it here.
If you are only using LinkedIn to apply for jobs, you are missing out on 90% of its capacity.
I see so many experienced professionals relying solely on the "Easy Apply" button.
It is time to stop doing this.
I understand completely how soul destroying it feels when your CV goes into a black hole.
It is incredibly frustrating to be ghosted after sending off countless applications.
But I am not here to slate LinkedIn, because it is a fantastic tool when used correctly.
Here are my top five strategies to transform LinkedIn into your networking partner.
This is exactly how you tap into the hidden job market.
1. Reconnect With Your Past
Start by tapping into the network you already have.
Use the search bar to look for companies you used to work for.
When I search for my former colleagues at places like PwC or Santander, I always find familiar faces.
Filter the results by "People" and look for your second degree connections.
I often spot someone I previously worked with closely who is now in a different role.
Sending a quick connection request to an old colleague is a brilliant first step.
You can also search for people who used to work at your previous company but have moved on.
They might just be working at your dream company right now.
Once they accept, send a personalised note to spark a conversation.
2. Map Your Existing Network
Next, you need to find out where your current connections are working.
Let us say you want to apply for a Technical Project Manager role.
Search for that specific job title and filter by your first degree connections.
You might be surprised to see someone you previously worked with is now an IT Project Manager in a new sector.
Reaching out to them is an easy way to get insider information.
Just drop them a direct message to see how they are doing.
Ask them about their current company and see if there are any opportunities for a referral.
3. Target Your Dream Companies
Now it is time to expand your connections proactively.
Search for the specific companies you wish to work for.
Look at your first degree connections first.
You might find someone you know socially who works there.
This gives you a great excuse to message them and ask what the culture is really like.
Take it a step further and search for your target job title within that specific company.
You could spot someone you previously worked with who is now a senior stakeholder there.
Do not forget to check your second degree connections as well and send them a connection request, even if you don’t know them!
Engaging with their content by liking their posts is a great way to build familiarity before reaching out.
4. Join Industry Groups
Joining online groups is a fantastic way to surround yourself with like minded professionals.
Search for groups relevant to your target role.
Do not worry about being overly selective at first.
You can always leave if the group does not add value.
Once accepted, post an introduction that showcases your expertise.
Suddenly, thousands of people have visibility of your skills and experience.
Keep an eye on the posts being shared in these groups.
You will often spot hidden job opportunities that never make it to the main job boards.
5. Share and Create Content
Finally, you need to build authority by posting your own content.
This shows your network that you are a true subject matter expert.
Talk about industry news or share a summary of a successful project you recently delivered.
Do not just post about being open to work or complain about the job market.
Recruiters look at your profile, and you want them to see a confident industry leader.
If creating original content feels overwhelming, simply find industry experts and share their posts.
Add a short comment with your own opinion before you hit repost.
This requires very little effort but positions you perfectly within your niche.
Good luck with your job searches this week, and if you’d like to learn how I can help you further, Book a free, no-obligation 30-minute consultationwith me and tell me your story.
Let’s see if I can help you shift the dial and secure your new career.
