LinkedIn
is a social networking site that is aimed specifically for professional
networking use. Sign-up is free for anybody and a profile is automatically
given which displays personal information, education history, employment
history, and other personal details that users choose to disclose. Users can
add “connections” which will enable them to communicate directly with them and
view their public profile. There are groups that users can join to have
discussions and share interests. A job search feature is available to look for
employment opportunities. LinkedIn also provides news mostly related to
marketing, real estate, or technological industries as well as from specific
companies. Companies can also have profiles which display information as well
as have the option to post blogs, start discussions, or simply be “followed”.
What’s Cool?
LinkedIn
is a great resource for a wide range of people and their needs. This includes
professionals and top managers in corporations, employees, clients, students,
alumni, and even just friends. It is a way to expand your network in more than
an informal social setting but professionally to foster relationships that can
help your career. Users can get advice, recommendations, job offers, as well as
initiate business deals, partnerships, and advertize. There is an unlimited
amount of opportunities that are derived from your connections.
LinkedIn’s
job search feature is a useful tool for people to seek out employment
opportunities and apply online without having to fill out any physical
paperwork. Users upload their resume onto their profile making them public and
therefore accessible by employers and recruiters. Users can choose to receive
email notifications and alerts for new job openings or matches with your
profile. In addition to resumes, users can receive recommendations from others which
further strengthen their professional image and reputation.
The
internet is becoming a major means of communication and social networking has
and still is rapidly becoming a large reason for this. With a site like
LinkedIn, many tasks can be done online, remotely, without having to physically
travel and submit documents. Simple stated, distance is no longer as large of a
factor in keeping connected with others. As Turkle says in Alone Together, “The global reach of connectivity can make the most
isolated outpost into a center of learning and economic activity.” (Turkle,
152) With just a few clicks, we can meet new people, form new connections, and
maintain them with relative easy. LinkedIn provides this connectivity that “offers
new possibilities for experimenting with identity…relatively consequence free.”
(Turkle, 152) The worst thing that could happen is being rejected for a job
position.
