Have you used Linkedin strategically in your job search? When you use this tool right, you will create new opportunities and eventually land your dream job. 

Having been offered jobs at Amazon, Redfin, and The Pokémon Company International, here are 5 LinkedIn networking strategies I’ve learned from my previous job search journey: 

Reach out to the “right” people

Most job seekers make the mistake of reaching out to every professional on LinkedIn without understanding their role in the company. For example, if you are interested in a marketing position, you don’t want to reach out to the company's tech recruiters or other non-marketing employees. Instead, spend time researching the employee structure of the company via their company page, and you will discover the right people to connect with.

Customized your message to every recipient

People love to receive customized messages specifically for them, and this method will boost your chance to get a response. Read their LinkedIn profile and see if you can find any common ground you can include in your message, such as same school, city, interest, etc. Another way to write a customized message is by reviewing their recent activity/post on LinkedIn and mentioning that you like their content or how that information has helped you learn more about the company. 

Focus on a concise and compelling message 

Creating a message that can grab the recipient’s attention is important, especially with your first 1-2 sentences. Additionally, your message should only be around 100 - 200 words. Otherwise, the recipients will get lost in the length and simply skip it. 

When writing your outreach message, start with your passion and the reason for contacting them. This information can quickly help others understand your intentions and even motivate them to reply to your message. For example, I started my outreach message like this: I am passionate about recruiting and would love to use my skills to help the company find more amazing talent and grow together.

Timing is key

When you meet someone at physical or virtual events, try your best to connect with them on LinkedIn in that moment. People are more open to connecting when they have had a great time outside of work. Once you connect with those professionals, don’t forget to send a short message within 24 hours to remind them of who you are and possibly invite them for coffee to continue the conversation. 

For example, I was at a marketing event and had a chance to meet the VP of HR at HBO. I connected with her on LinkedIn and sent her a follow-up message to remind her how we met. She ended up talking with a hiring manager about me, and I received an interview opportunity with the company a week later. 

Be patient and willing to send a follow-up message

Keep in mind that people are busy with their work and life, and it is okay if they don't respond to your message immediately. After a week, you can send a follow-up message and see if they have more flexibility to respond to your message. 

No matter whether you get a response or not, it is important that you show your respect to others. As a former recruiter, job seekers who had no respect in their messages would not get my attention, and they may end up blacklisted. Don’t let that happen to you. You never want to burn bridges with any potential employers. Just move on and keep searching for that one yes.

Need help on your LinkedIn profile and job search strategy, so you can attract the right opportunities and make the magic happen?