LinkedIn Tip LinkedIn Groups

LinkedIn Tip LinkedIn Groups In 2006, when I still worked at Cisco, I started a little LinkedIn Group called “Cisco.”   Okay, not very creative or original. But I thought it was a good idea at the time to help Cisco folks leverage our mutual LinkedIn networks for career opportunities. HR didn’t like the idea though which only made me want to do it more   Why groups are a great job search toolBy joining and participating in a group, you (the job seeker) have a powerful way of adding value to and growing your online reputation. As a group facilitator, I can tell you who are the leaders of the discussion, and who are the valued contributors to the group. When you participate, people notice.Furthermore, by being members of the same group as your target company, your odds of getting a favorable response to your job inquiry are much higher.Group Guidelines for the Job SeekerJoin a group that takes you where you want to go, not one that keeps you where you are.Join a group that you WILL participate in. Don’t be a fly on the wall.Participation in a group means posting and responding to discussion. Make sure you are putting your best foot forward, be positive, show your motivation.Tell your truth but don’t shout! If you are unemployed, then don’t be ashamed and try to keep it a secret, but don’t flaunt it either. Just be cool and make sure that you are always honest about where you are and what you are looking for.Identify other leaders in the group and determine whether they could be valuable connections or information sources; if so, then by all means reach out to them.