One of this week's assignments for my summer class required getting some experience using LinkedIn. We added classmates and our instructor in addition to selecting at least one group to participate in.
Prior to this assignment, I had set up a LinkedIn account, but I didn't see the value in it because I already have a job and career that I love. Also, I was a bit apprehensive to add a lot of personal information about myself like my education background and job history because once it's on the internet, it's never going away. Although I enjoy many aspects of social media, I do like to maintain some degree of anonymity. After dabbling in it this week, I don't think my opinions have changed about LinkedIn for my use.
But I do see how this can benefit job seekers and those looking to see what types of jobs are available. LinkedIn has the potential to showcase different career paths, which can be beneficial to many. In addition, LinkedIn gives job seekers an opportunity to network and increase chances of getting an interview. In fact, I recently spoke with a coworker who had heard from an individual he had interviewed years ago. She contacted him inquiring about potential job opportunities, and he was able to provide her with information about a future job opening. He, as a hiring manager, benefited as he was able to learn more about her through her LinkedIn page, and she benefited as she gained information to aid in her job hunt.
So, I find LinkedIn to be a good tool for job seekers and recruiters, but not too interesting for someone like me who doesn't fit in either category. I'm glad I tried it though!
Wendy,
ReplyDeleteI was a staff specialist and recruiter at one point and used LInkedIn to find candidates. It is an extremely useful tool and should be used more often. I think it still is a great tool for those who are not seeking employment. It is a way to network with others in your field. You can find out about business processes and latest developments, it also allows you to collaborate with people who share the same background as you.
Thanks for your perspective, Marinelle. It's nice to hear how others find value in this tool. I think I see less of a need for it because I am already plugged into a few networks through a different medium.
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ReplyDeleteWendy,
ReplyDeleteI posted a comment and it disappeared. So I am sorry if you get two almost identical. I have to agree with your post completely. I've been very apprehensive to what I want to post and add about myself. I am not in a position for it to benefit me. It is helpful to learn about though. Maybe someday we will be in the position to use it and we will have the tools we need.
Aby
I agree that LinkedIn may be beneficial in the future, but I do not like having so much personal information on the web. I blocked a lot of it to people who I am not connected to, so that makes me feel a bit better.
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