Why You Should Have a LinkedIn

In my social media principles class, we are entering the third chapter of "Social Media Marketing Workbook 2016". This chapter begins the topic of LinkedIn. LinkedIn is a form of social media with a bigger purpose than just posting pictures and liking posts. LinkedIn is a professional social media platform. Unlike how Facebook is all about friends, family and fun, LinkedIn is all about business networking.

LinkedIn consists of:

• connection requests between people
• introductions by one business contact to another
• updates on one's profile, sharing news, events, and insights
• learning sessions occurring on LinkedIn groups that discuss industry trends and technologies
• company Pages and LinkedIn

The "virtual world" of LinkedIn mirrors the "real world" of an industry conference or trade show. 

Having your own LinkedIn profile is key if you are looking to get your name out there to businesses. Your profile consists of online resumes listing skills, education and interests. Profiles allow one individual to connect with another. It is similar to Facebook by being able to send friend requests, and once accepted and connected, you and the other individual can direct message and check each other's profiles. 

Another feature that LinkedIn has is being able to join groups. Groups are very important! LinkedIn has "break out" groups by topic that bring like-minded people together in a professional way. Companies also have their own LinkedIn pages. Individuals can follow companies, and by doing so, give permission to the company to converse. 

After reading this chapter, I realize how important it is to have a LinkedIn and suggest creating one to everyone. It is a good way to get your name and resume out there. There are many features on it that can help create the perfect profile for you while remaining professional. I will definitely be making myself a LinkedIn profile. What about you?