Go Digital with Your Job Search
As a student at Argosy University, Online Programs, you're already developing skills and forging relationships that will help you to advance your career. Still, job seekers should use all available avenues to find employment, and LinkedIn may be one of the best online tools you have at your disposal. Here, you'll find tips for maximizing your LinkedIn experience and finding the job of your dreams.
Create a LinkedIn profile
If you haven't already, create a LinkedIn profile. Upload an office-appropriate photograph and list all relevant work and internship experience. Once you've completed your profile (including specialties), ask colleagues for recommendations, which can help you stand out from the competition. Be sure to recommend your colleagues as well! The effort will not go unreciprocated.
To connect with other Argosy University alumni and students on LinkedIn, join the Worldwide Professionals Network | Argosy University group.
Tailor Your Search Criteria
Many companies use LinkedIn to list jobs in addition to or in place of the standard online job boards. When you search for a job on LinkedIn, list keywords relevant to the positions you're looking for, determine an industry and define a salary range.
Save your search criteria to streamline your search process. Also save jobs that interest you so that you can find them easily in the future.
Identify the Hiring Manager
When possible, it’s best to have a name to which you can address your cover letter rather than writing "Dear HR Department" or "To Whom it May Concern." Some postings name the person who posted the job description; if so, contact the poster to see to whom you should address your letter.
Use Your LinkedIn Connections
Apply for jobs to which you're connected to an employee of the company (within two degrees). If you have a first-degree connection at a company, ask that person for a recommendation. If you have a second-degree connection (which is comparable to a friend of a friend), it's worth asking for an introduction to that person. They may be able to tell you about the company's culture, structure and even hiring process.
Do Your Research
As you probably know, no job posting lists all the skills and traits required of applicants. Here's your chance to do a bit of detective work: View the profiles of other people who work in the role for which you're applying and make note of their skills. Follow the company's LinkedIn updates to get a sense of who they are and what's important to them. For a more holistic view, see what skills people in the same role at other companies have. This will help you to determine whether you're qualified for a role, and it will also give you insight about how to word your resume and cover letter.
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