Should you use Linkedin?

[patrick85395]

Got my last job through it. Next job which I start in a few weeks through it. Each time was contacted by a recruiter. Each job exceeded $100k.

[luckydogg]

Originally Posted by BusinessManIT

Now, on LinkedIn, most people put one or more photos of themselves there, so if you don't, the perception is given (rightly or wrongly) that you are ugly, very old, or look like Quasimodo.

This is very true, which is why I have a profile photo. I suppose it may have the opposite effect also, I am fit and take care of how I look, however some would consider me "old" (early 50's) so I think my profile and photo actually help me offset the older age, since I still get contacted all the time. So guess for me it has helped in avoiding age discrimination.

Looks and how you present yourself do matter in person - so I guess it wouldn't be any different online. :/

[kimchee]

Originally Posted by BusinessManIT

LinkedIn is a very valuable tool and you can put in a lot of professional information about yourself in there, far more than what is in a one to five page resume. You can list your accomplishments there and other pertinent information. People that look you up will see a clearer professional picture of you. The more detailed that you make it, the more you will stand out from others there.

I used to be a software developer and have had a LinkedIn profile for years. It is very detailed and one of the most extensive that you will find on LinkedIn. When talking with people and if they want to know more about you, you can refer them to your LinkedIn profile and it will speak for you. LinkedIn is free (non-premium), so why not use it for your advantage?

Ditto, it is an invaluable job search tool and has netted me great results in my recent job hunt. It is passive job hunting at its best when you have a great profile with agood number of recommendations. I highly recommend using it!