LinkedIn has become an essential business and personal branding platform used by companies and individuals worldwide. In more recent years LinkedIn has also become not only a platform to network on but a beneficial tool for professionals looking for a their next opportunity or businesses looking for their next hire. Many recruitment businesses have also made investment into using LinkedIn’s services to find suitable candidates.
With this in mind Pasquale Agatiello - Partner, In-house Legal, has put together an overview on how legal professionals can use the platform as part of their job search and how recruiters use LinkedIn to find suitable candidates.
How do recruiters use LinkedIn to find candidates?
Most recruiters use LinkedIn’s premium Recruiter service. This allows them unlimited people browsing, meaning recruiters can search all candidates even if they’re not in their network. Advanced search allows recruiters to type in combinations of criteria such as Job Title, Keyword, Skills and Location. Once a list of promising candidates has been created, in-mail messages allows recruiters to directly message any user on LinkedIn.
What makes LinkedIn so important for recruiters?
Since it launched LinkedIn has established itself as an essential tool in the modern job market. More than 95% of recruiters use LinkedIn when they’re searching for candidates. It’s a great tool for recruiters who want to seek passive candidates (those who aren’t looking for a job). It also offers information that isn’t readily available on a traditional CV application.
How should candidates use LinkedIn to find their next legal job?
This depends on whether your current employer is aware that you are looking for a new role. Remember your current employer will have access to LinkedIn and if they’re in your network they will see any changes you make. So, use some or all of the points below depending on your circumstances:
- Let people know you’re available announce the fact you’re looking for a new role. LinkedIn has an “open to finding a new job” setting – there are two options depending on whether you wish it to be kept private from your current employer.
- Update your photo – remember LinkedIn is a professional site, keep the pictures of you holding a cat or dressed up as Yoda on a night out for Facebook
- Update your profile – add the skills you’ve acquired in your current job. Flesh out your LinkedIn summaryand professional experiences to showcase those accomplishments
- Research companies you’re interested in and follow them. This will keep you updated about company news and new positions as they become available
- Make more connections – unlike the song by the Notorious B.I.G this won’t bring you more problems
- Join groups relevant to your industry – share content and engage regularly with your network
- LinkedIn job search – It sounds obvious but don’t forget there are lots of jobs listed on LinkedIn
- Get active – Post any relevant blogs or articles you write. The more you post the more you’ll be noticed and build recognition
Are there any drawbacks to using LinkedIn to find your next legal job?
LinkedIn does require an investment of time. It can take time for connections to form and conversations to get started. It’s important to keep your information up to date, sharing content and engaging with your network. However, the rewards significantly outweigh the time.
Common Pitfalls / mistakes
The most common mistake is typos. Once you’ve completed your profile go through it with a fine-tooth comb and once you’ve done that let somebody else read it. Nothing ruins your credibility quicker than a typo. Recruiters use job titles as a search field. Calling yourself a Legal Ninja might make you feel trendy, but it also means you will not be included when recruiters do their searches. No pictures of you holding a cat, watering can or your award-winning marrow. Hopefully no further explanation is needed.
