Make the Most of LinkedInNew Tips for 2014

Presented by Jason A. Hicks

LinkedIn: What Is It, Anyway?

• It’s an online community used to network with fellow professionals.

• It’s primarily geared toward job seekers/recruiters and those looking for online discussions among colleagues.

How Do I Make the Most of It?

• Develop a full, robust profile

• Create a valuable network

• Engage with the right groups

Develop a Profile

• More than a resume—it’s an online persona

• Fill out your profile completely—include a photo

• Think very carefully about what you put in your headline—it appears everywhere

• Reorder your profile so the most important details show first

Develop a Profile

• Consider omitting jobs that don’t serve your current career goals

• Take your recommendations and endorsements seriously

• Think like a search engine—use terms that people might be searching for

• Set up a unique URL and go public

Develop a Profile

• You can also add association memberships, honors and awards, certifications, and more

• Make sure to manage your settings, especially broadcasts and privacy controls

• Update your profile regularly to make sure it’s still meeting your needs

• Keep it simple—most new tools don’t provide lasting value or aren’t worth it

Create a Valuable Network

• The number of connections is not as important as the value of those connections

• Adding connections is not like trading business cards—it publicly connects you

• Start with current and former colleagues, and develop those relationships

Create a Valuable Network

• Networking through LinkedIn is helpful, but it does not replace in-person networking

• Everyone has their own approach to LinkedIn, and some people are more professional there than others

• If you aren’t networking, you’re missing the point of LinkedIn

Engage With the Right Groups

• Associations and industry groups are great places to start

• Alumni groups, especially if they’re specific to your field, can help you meet like-minded people

• Check out companies and other organizations you might be interested in

Engage With the Right Groups

• When looking for official group pages, look for ones with plenty of members

• Moderated groups where members are screened have more relevant conversation

Q&A

??

Join ACHE’s Official Group

• More than 13,500 healthcare management professionals are group members

• Only ACHE members are allowed, making it a member benefit and guaranteeing quality interaction and contacts

• Discussions include the sharing of meaningful industry articles, solutions to current challenges and career advice