How to Rethink Using LinkedIn for Your Job Search

Did you know the first thing people say when they lose their job? It's "I need to update my LinkedIn profile." 

While it's always possible to update your profile (you should do it regularly), most only add to their paint-by-number reputation destination once it's too late. 

Then it's a rush job. Someone always knows someone who can work on their profile. Hmmm. I've heard that one before.

YOUR LINKEDIN PROFILE IS NOT YOUR RESUME

Your LinkedIn account should be something other than your resume. It should be your reputation's destination. 

TOP LINKEDIN JOB HUNTING STATISTICS AND WHY THEY ARE IMPORTANT TO YOUR SEARCH

Here are the full LinkedIn statistics for job hunters:

1. There are over 900 million registered LinkedIn users worldwide. Suppose you are more expertly using this platform and are looking for a job. In that case, breaking through into recruiters and hiring managers will take much work. Source: LinkedIn
2. 40% of active users on LinkedIn use the platform daily. You have to be present to get the attention of those who want to interview you! Source: Kinsta
3. 87% of recruiters use LinkedIn to find potential job candidates. You have to fish where the fish are, whether you are a recruiter or a job seeker. It goes both ways!
4. 94% of recruiters use LinkedIn to vet candidates. Once a hiring company receives your application, they will likely go to LinkedIn to see if you walk the talk. Source: Zippia
5. The average LinkedIn user spends 17 minutes on the platform per month. You get out of a job search strategy what you put into it, so think about spending 17 minutes a day instead of 17 minutes a month on the platform. Source: Pew
6. More than 90% of Fortune 500 companies use LinkedIn for hiring. You have to look the best and offer value and insight on LinkedIn to be hired by the top organizations. Source: Statista
7. 75% of job seekers research a company's reputation before applying. The key for job seekers is to use this research to engage with hiring managers before the application step and to develop questions to show you did the pre-interview due diligence. Source: Forbes
8. 87% of job seekers search for jobs on LinkedIn. So if your job-seeking strategy does not include LinkedIn, you may be outplayed by your competition. Source: Jobvite
9. Most LinkedIn job postings are for mid-level positions, 42%, followed by entry-level 28% and senior-level 19%. It's always a good place to start your search. Learn the keywords for which companies are hiring. Learn the next-job requirements so you can begin to talk the talk of where your want to work and do. Source: LinkedIn
10. The most in-demand skills on LinkedIn include management, communication, and customer service. So, if you are in this field, you are a hot commodity! Source: LinkedIn
11. Some say LinkedIn's "Easy Apply" feature has led to a 30% increase in job applications. Don't rely on this feature to get your application seen! It would be best if you found other ways to get on the radar of the hiring manager and the hiring manager's manager.
12. 37% of millionaires use LinkedIn. LinkedIn is the employment watering hole to network and make more money! Source: Spectrem
13. 77% of recruiters use LinkedIn's messaging feature to reach potential job candidates. If recruiters are reaching out to you, make sure you set yourself up to see the message and respond with your interest immediately. Just don't be desperate. Source: Jobvite
14. 85% of LinkedIn users have been contacted by a recruiter, which tells you that a LinkedIn job strategy works! Since most recruiters use LinkedIn search to find candidates, you must have a complete and robust profile, including relevant keywords. Source: LinkedIn
15. LinkedIn is the fourth most popular way people see a job, after referrals and job boards. The thing about referrals is that an active LinkedIn posting and engagement strategy can lead to more referrals! Source: Robert Half
16. Only 56% of college students are LinkedIn members. I would like to know if this group needs to listen to their parent's advice or if universities need to connect the dots of teaching skills and show where students put these skills to work. Jobs don't magically appear! Source: LinkedIn and Finances Online
17. 8 people are hired through the LinkedIn platform every minute. This statistic may you jump to refresh your profile and posting strategy immediately! Source: LinkedIn
18. There are 101 job applications submitted every minute on LinkedIn. With so many people using this approach, they must know something you don't if you are not using this community to find your next job. But, are you using it right? Source: LinkedIn
19. A comprehensive LinkedIn profile gives a 71% higher chance of a job interview. This research indicates the basic need to complete your profile and then some! Source: Forbes

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THESE JOB-SEEKING LINKEDIN STATISTICS?

These LinkedIn statistics show that a platform is a crucial tool for job seekers, with recruiters relying heavily on the platform to find potential candidates. By maintaining an active LinkedIn profile, following companies of interest, and engaging with industry leaders, job hunters can increase their chances of finding their dream job.

So, what's your favorite statistic from above that you did not know before you read this post? I'd love to see it in the comments below!

WHAT'S YOUR NEXT MOVE?

I've worked with thousands to help them create and sustain their personal brand on LinkedIn. So, I've packaged up all that hands-on experience to provide a 45-point personalized LinkedIn profile assessment and recommendation guide. After one is completed for you, you'll have specific directions to use your profile to catch the attention of hiring companies and differentiate yourself from the competition! Reach out to me at calendly.com/marketingthink