Following on from our training with Peabody in December, we were invited back to run a session specifically on LinkedIn. Like many people, the team had a general understanding of what LinkedIn is and why people use it – “it’s like Facebook for professionals,” is often quoted – but were unsure about it’s many features, and especially, how Peabody clients can utilise and benefit from this resource.
LinkedIn is an online professional network (the world’s largest at that) with a mission to “connect the world’s professionals to make them more productive and successful”. It’s important to note, however, that anyone looking for work, or trainers supporting clients in jobseeking shouldn’t be put off by the word “professional”. LinkedIn isn’t just for suit-wearing office workers or people with established careers.
Employment broker Felicity Hunt gave a great example of one of her clients who, in his 50s with work experience in bespoke menswear / retail, created a LinkedIn profile with her help. Within the space of a few weeks, he has already built up about 70 connections within his industry (including former colleagues, and potential employers) gained endorsements and even made contact with recruiters in relation to prospective work.
Felicity made particular reference to how creating a LinkedIn profile has boosted her client’s confidence. It’s also a way for him to keep up to date with his industry even during the times he is not in paid work. There’s a useful article on www.cio.com about how to make connections effectively.
As well as discussing the benefits to clients in using LinkedIn to build professional connections, the Peabody team were getting to grips with some of the other features. The ability to build an online profile in a step-by-step user-friendly way - adding skills, work experience, education, training, projects and other activities – is as beneficial to trainers as jobseekers, particularly when they are working with clients who have limited computer and online skills.
With jobseekers being able build on a traditional CV through such a complementary and undaunting online resource – consequently enhancing their online public profile and employability – we’re looking forward to hearing from the Peabody team in the future to see how the trainers and their clients alike are getting on. Here’s what Felicity had to say about today’s Networking for Work session.
