Once upon a time, in-person contact and face-to-face networking created career paths in the United States. For better or worse, the reality of career advancement has always been “who you know,” more than “what you know.” Even as recently as the mid-2000s, online relationships were a secondary element when it came to finding a job or advancing a career. However, the incredible growth of online social networking platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, and particularly LinkedIn has changed the dynamic. Today, no one who is serious about career growth can afford to ignore the online realm.

Make no mistake – any job you apply for, or contract you bid for, any sort of work you seek will lead to someone looking you up on the Internet. What the hiring agent finds there can shape an initial opinion. And as the saying goes, you only have one chance to make a great first impression. In this social media age, getting ahead in a career might very well depend on the first impression as shaped by the attention you’ve given to your most important professional online presence: your LinkedIn account.

Here, then, are a few ways you can get the most out of your LinkedIn account as you attempt to climb the corporate ladder, get a foot in the door, or continue your pursuit of the one and only dream job that is sure to bring you professional and personal fulfillment.

1. Fill out your profile as completely as possible.

This means answering all of the questions put to you on your profile page. Include as much detail as possible – in as succinct a manner as possible. Under your professional history, be sure to point out relevant accomplishments and awards. Under your education history, be sure to include any campus societies you belonged to, as well as extra-curricular activities. Even if you haven’t been in school for years, those extra curriculars could create common ground between you and a potential employer.

2. Link up with people in your chosen field.

This is one of the most important steps you can take, perhaps even more important than a 100 percent completed and “All-Star” level profile. As mentioned, who you know is every bit as important as your background and achievements. Even if you no longer socialize with someone in person, or even if you are only connected to an important person in your profession through a common contact, reach out and add them to your connections list. Now is not the time to be shy. You only get where you want to go by getting out there in the world, even if that world is “virtual.”

3. Join LinkedIn groups that interest you.

Most professions are covered by more than one LinkedIn group. For example, social media professionals have dozens of choices. You might also want to check to see if your college or university has a group created especially to help alumni make professional connections in your geographical area. Engage in these groups. Add your own unique take to conversations, or start a conversation yourself. Get yourself out there. Make yourself known.

While no social media network will ever replace skill and knowledge as the best ways to keep a career on the right path, LinkedIn – and to a lesser extent, Facebook – can be a fabulous tool for helping you find the right job for you. If you really want to get serious, consider whether to upgrade to the Career Seeker level of LinkedIn. This might cost money, but the depth of services could be just the thing to take you where you want to go in your career.

Peg Smith is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications. As a lifestyle expert, Ms. Smith is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to career development.

Peg Smith is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications. As a lifestyle expert, Ms. Smith is able to offer insight into a multitude of topics, including career development. http://www.inc.com/profile/laser-spine-institute

Author Bio: Peg Smith is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications. As a lifestyle expert, Ms. Smith is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to career development.

Category: Career
Keywords: Career growth, career development