Should Students bother with LinkedIn?

Should Students Bother With LinkedIn?
Should Students Bother With LinkedIn?

Introduction

How do you see LinkedIn? Do you see it as a job portal or social media? Well, in both ways, you are correct to a certain extent; unlike other social networking sites, LinkedIn is more geared towards professionals but different from other job portals, LinkedIn does more than just allow you to search for openings. 

LinkedIn is an invaluable resource for students, and do you know that in 2013 LinkedIn reduced its age restriction from 18 to 13 in Ireland and Europe to 14 in the United States, Canada, and Australia. 

The challenge comes when you have to stand out among all the graduates looking for jobs. When you’re still in college, a LinkedIn account is a great way to network. A student’s LinkedIn profile is a great way to find work experience and other opportunities while studying. 


Here are the Top 5 reasons why you should have a LinkedIn profile!

1. Connect with Industry Professionals

You get to connect with people that you wouldn’t in real life. The best way to get started is to connect with people you admire or companies you wish to work for. Don’t hesitate to send them a message and ask them questions about the industry. You never know what kind of opportunities this might lead to.

2. It helps with job hunting

Additionally, the app has a job search section, where you can put in what role you are looking for and the location you want to work in, and you’ll be notified as soon as these jobs become available. You can break into the career you dream of by spending just 10 minutes browsing LinkedIn’s job openings every day.

3. Companies can find You

If you are seeking employment or an internship, you can advertise on LinkedIn. If someone is impressed with your profile and your work, they may reach out to you. In addition, you can see who views your profile, which is great for determining what type of industry professionals you attract. 

4. It shows you are dedicated to pursuing your career

Having a LinkedIn account as a student proves that you are dedicated to pursuing your career. Being specific in your summary and connecting with professionals in the field that you want to end up in shows that you’re willing to invest the time and effort needed to succeed.

5. Prepare for Interviews

It is always nerve-wracking to walk into an interview, but if you have a LinkedIn account, you can conduct your own research into the company, and the employer, so that you can feel prepared.

Tips for creating a LinkedIn profile as a student:

  • Put a professional profile picture on your page.
  • Consider joining groups and following companies that share your interests.
  • Don’t forget to complete your profile! Using it as an extended CV will ensure employers that you are an individual who can contribute a wide range of skills to the workplace.
  • During your first year of university, join LinkedIn to showcase your progress.
  • Once you have completed your profile, start building a strong network. Get started on building those essential connections right now, and don’t just sit on your account dormant!

LinkedIn is a tool designed to help us. At the beginning, don’t worry about what to post and what not to post. Create an account, and the rest will follow; you’ll learn from other people, and this will give you more ideas on posting stuff. 

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