Why a LinkedIn Profile Is Crucial for C-Level Executives

LinkedIn has become the go-to site for individuals who want to display all aspects of their professional life in one place. By setting up a profile you can showcase your resume, display your professional websites and blogs, garner recommendations, catch up with former associates, and acquire new networking contacts.

There’s currently no better online “catch all” for professionals hoping to gain exposure with recruiters and hiring managers. This is why, as a C-level executive, it’s a good idea that you jump on the bandwagon with everyone else.

What is LinkedIn?

LinkedIn is a business-related social networking site, connecting millions of individuals throughout the professional world. Founded in 2002 and officially launched in May 2003, the site reports having more than 135 million registered users in more than 200 countries and territories as of September 2011.

The site is the central location for companies and individuals to conduct online searches for other professionals. In 2010 the company reported that there were nearly two billion people searches on its site. As of the end of the third quarter 2011, LinkedIn said professionals were signing up to join the site at a rate faster than two new members per second.

Benefits of Using LinkedIn

There are a number of inherent benefits of using LinkedIn as a resource for conducting your job search. The first benefit is that it is absolutely free. Simply sign up and begin developing your profile. But there are other great benefits to consider as well:

• Post your resume: LinkedIn allows you to post a copy of your resume on the site for others to see. You can also create a resume through the site. Some professionals utilize both options.

• Research companies: Hundreds of thousands of companies have created profiles on LinkedIn. Signing up allows you to conduct research on organizational culture, employee statistics, and more.

• Build your networking pool: Networking is a major benefit of LinkedIn as it allows you to connect with former associates while meeting new connections.

• Acquire recommendations: Once you begin making connections with professionals you’ve worked for or with, or have supervised, you can ask them for recommendations to help others determine how qualified you are in your role.

• Attract recruiter attention: There’s nothing better than having a recruiter or hiring manager seek you for a position. With so many browsing the site every day for new leads, setting up an information-rich profile makes it much easier for them to find you.

The pros of signing up for a LinkedIn profile far outweigh any cons. Take time to explore the site for yourself. You’re sure to find that it’s a good match for you.