It’s OK, go on admit it…we’ve all been that 19th century grandparent who needs Internet help. We’re here to show you the way on the latest network must-have LinkedIn –– a rapidly growing professional, but essentially social, online network site. It’s the biggest thing next to Facebook that’s hitting all generations. LinkedIn allows you to create a professional profile of yourself, including everything from academic history to spoken languages.

Why use it?

Contact and important networking within fields of professional work and study are at the fore of the site’s advantages. All of which allows you to network a database of desirable work contacts right from your very seat at home just by clicking “connect”. Whether it’s a phone number you need, an e-mail address, picture or just want a nosy at work contacts — this is the place to do it! You can scout for job availabilities, check out the latest in your work field’s stats, compare rising job trends on the market and apply for vacancies. If that’s not enough, you may also browse a news page of advice and comments on your field of work and also contribute your opinions to discussions. The best part is obviously making your own tailored profile and sticking those qualifications right at the front to impress prospective work colleagues and employers. Fresh college grad? Seasoned businessman? Freelancer? This is the place for all things professional.

But remember…

LinkedIn is not essential to work. If you’ve got grades you are not proud of or a work history you’d just rather not share –– fear not! You can tailor your profile to include only the aspects of yourself you want others to see.

But then again yet another social networking site can be a bit of a faff. If you’re a die hard FB or Twitter user, you may just be happy sticking to those and including work details and updates via those sites. LinkedIn’s accessibility for employers and employees also makes it easier for your personal information to be found and shared on the Internet. So when you are typing up that profile you may want to double check who exactly you want reading your information and if it’s better creating an anonymous account so friends and family can’t have a nosy at your professional profile.

LinkedIn vs Facebook

1. You are able to add CVs.

2. You are able to add qualifications and certifications.

3. Groups are specifically linked to academic histories or university institutions.

4. You can tailor your “news feed” to one specific job area.

5. You can apply for advertised jobs via the site.

6. You can limit job advertisements to your location.

7. You can find all groups of people in one job sector or alumni in groups –– which makes them easier to find and connect.

8. You can follow statistic channels and latest market trends.

LinkedIn Premium

There are VIP bonuses on offer beyond that red-taped standard free profile we can delve into. There are three categories –– Business ($14.99), Business Plus ($29.99) and Executive ($49.99). Although you might begrudge forking out that extra cash, the benefits of these premium packages are designed specifically for the more serious network user. With premium packages you can see extended profiles, see more search filters and results, send direct mails and so on. Definitely worth a thought if you’re keen to get networking and make those jobs happen now. Besides, you can always cancel a premium account any moment.

How-to info

1. Enter www.linkedin.com into your web browser

2. Click ‘create profile’ and insert all professional and academic qualifications.

3. Upload a recent, simple picture of yourself. Opt for a headshot, but not the pouting selfie look!

4. Optional, but include a summary of your professional life, and score brownie points writing it in the third person.

5. Move profile settings to “anonymous” under privacy controls to scroll through other people’s profiles without them knowing it’s you.

6. Add people by clicking “connect” on their profile.

7. Update your job location and preference under the “jobs” toolbar.

8. Follow desired companies, track job updates and join networking groups under the “interests” link.

9. Join LinkedIn Pulse to follow world news updates in your job sector and interests.

10. Use the status toolbar to update others about your opinions, advice and comments on present issues. Good luck and happy networking.

Zara Morgan

How does LinkedIn help you? Tell t2@abp.in