What do you think of LinkedIn? (applying, interview, job, career)

[iarch]

I think I have been on Linkedin for about 2 years now.
I can't say it has actually helped my professional career.
What do you think about Linkedin?

I just found out about a new position, they are looking for an additional member of a team. So I checked Linkedin and found only 1 member of this team. But I am shocked as to how this person attained this position, considering their previous work experience and education.

I would assume that most linkedin profiles don't deviate too far from the same information on a formal resume?
So I was wondering if this was true of others on linkedin?

Does your profile truly reflect who you are as a professional and can this be said of others you view on the site?

[annerk]

I think it's a great tool. I recently used it to network with others in my industry and got a referal for a vendor for a service I needed for my job.

I also got an interview from it for a job posted only on LinkedIn when I was looking for work. They were only accepting resumes from people with a minimum of four recommendations, I have seven.

[Greyhnd]

I've only been on it since this year but I can't say it has helped me. The few "strangers" that I sent emails to did not respond (I just had job inquiry questions regarding their companies, was not asking for much). I still look at it, but don't go crazy with it. However, there is always the chance one of your connections will be connected to someone at a company you are applying at. Since I am looking for work, my profile lists a few resume points, whereas some people have more of a general summary.

[tluv00]

I use it all of the time to increase my network, find potential clients and prepare for client meetings. Depending on the individual their profile usually is a summary of the resume. I love LinkedIn personally.

[ReturningWest]

So far it's been worthless to me.

[annerk]

I think it depends on how you use it and how large your actual network of people you know is to begin with.

Try joining one of the groups for the industry you are in and networking with the others in the group.

[tluv00]

Originally Posted by ReturningWest

So far it's been worthless to me.

Excellent feedback. Thanks for playing

Why exactly has it been useless? I ask because a) people don't always know how to use, b) it's not for every industry/job category c) some people just don't like social media or the time needed to maintain your personal content.

[dragonfly0428]

I'm still on the fence with LinkedIn. I've made my initial network as large as I can, but feel funny about "getting introduced", especially if I barely know the person I'm asking. The choices for connecting with someone aren't bad, but why put "I don't know _____" if it won't let you connect?

The groups job boards stink. LinkedIn needs a better way to organize and oversee them. Job seekers and "headhunters" are all mixed in there, and just a mess.

However, I like the groups, and find a lot of good information out there.

[Woof Woof Woof!]

I think it is a great tool if used properly!

You have to fill in the right information and include a picture. And then you use it as a way to stay in touch with and follow other business people. It's just one more way to get your name out there!

You can also include links to your blog and website.

[BCBGirl]

Add 500+ people to your LinkedIn network you don't even know so you appear knowledgeable and cool. lol