Are you using your LinkedIn groups to their maximum? Unfortunately, most executives and professionals do not, to the detriment of their career management.
LinkedIn is the #1 tool for you to conduct your research, generate leads, and uncover opportunities. It’s a multi-faceted platform, yet very simple if you know how to use it correctly.
Every LinkedIn group provides you the opportunity to market yourself as an expert to your peers and other interested stakeholders within that group. And if you’re willing to be honest and upfront about your career situation, it can also be the path to your next executive appointment.
When joining a group, have a purpose in mind. Be prudent in choosing groups that are pertinent to you and your career goals, as people do judge you based on the groups you join.
(Tip: See my previous posts for instructions on how to customize which LinkedIn groups you display on your profile.)
The most important post in a LinkedIn group
Do you introduce yourself when joining a group? Likely not, and this is a cardinal sin in career management. This is an audience of people in your defined area, waiting for your participation. You want to articulate to that group the value of your attributes and assets, strengthening your communication and collaboration with these potential peers, leaders and other influencers.
Your first posting should be an introduction about yourself and your current career status. If you are seeking a job, then be upfront and tell those group members.
Be very clear about what you want. If you have a strategic job search plan, you can articulate the specific target company you want to join. You might be surprised that your future boss or your boss’s boss in one of those appointed companies could also be a member of your new LinkedIn group.
Staying on the radar
There is no point in joining a group unless you are a willing and active participant. After your introduction, follow the discussions and be engaging and active, providing constructive and meaningful comments to other people’s posts. This allows you the opportunity to strengthen your credibility.
Remember those who have helped you
When you do land a new role, create a message to tell the group membership of your new position, and thank them for their contributions to your job search.
But don’t be a stranger, never posting again until you need input for your next search. Be there for them, as they were for you, as you all encounter the ebb and flow of career transition.
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