If you are currently looking for a new job, one of the neat features LinkedIn has to offer is the ability to set up job alerts based on companies of interest and positions of interest. I have clients contact me on a regular basis asking if they should set up these alerts—wondering how they work and what it is they specifically do. The answer is always a resounding “YES!” providing they understand all the features LinkedIn has to offer as it relates to their personal job search.
How to Set Up Your Alerts
There are two ways to set up a job alert on LinkedIn: by a company or by position. A job alert that is set for a company will let you know when any new jobs are posted for that specific company. A job alert that is set by position will let you know when any jobs are posted that meet specific criteria you choose yourself. Both options can be selected simultaneously, and you can be notified via email or the LinkedIn app when a position is posted.
Best of all, regardless of which option you choose, you will be alerted to new openings almost immediately, which is important – the sooner your application is submitted, the better! There really is no reason to not take full advantage of this feature.
The Open to Work Feature
Now, another option that LinkedIn offers for job seekers is the ability to set a profile to “open to work”. This is an excellent feature; however, it is one that you should use with caution if you are in a confidential job search, as it lets recruiters and hiring managers know that you are searching for a job. While LinkedIn does have algorithms in place that prevent current employers from becoming notified, there are no guarantees.
If you are interested in using this feature, select the “add profile section” to the right of your profile photo. Then, select “intro” and complete the questionnaire that appears. If you choose to show this section to “Only Recruiters”, the only people who will be able to view that you are “open to work” are Recruiters who pay for Recruiter Premium through LinkedIn. This is important to select if you are keeping your job search confidential.
If you choose “All LinkedIn Members” then ALL members of LinkedIn (including hiring managers, decision makers and Recruiters who don’t use LinkedIn Recruiter) can see that you are “open to work”. This option should only be selected if your job search is not confidential. If you select “All LinkedIn Members”, LinkedIn will add a green frame around your profile photo with the hashtag #OpentoWork so that ANYONE sourcing for someone like you can find you.
The LinkedIn Profile is a Must for Professionals in a Job Search
LinkedIn is truly an incredible resource for anyone that is currently looking for a job. If you have a LinkedIn, I encourage you to use it to its fullest potential. If you do not have a LinkedIn, I strongly recommend you sign up for one, which is free to do. And, if you are unsure of how to begin, or what you can do to help optimize your LinkedIn profile, my free masterclass can help. As the famous saying goes, “Don’t be shy about asking for help. It doesn’t mean you’re weak, it only means you’re wise.”
To a successful job search!