LinkedIn isn’t much more than a glorified resume database, right? Wrong! In fact, as one of the leading employment agencies in Sacramento, California, Pacific Staffing knows that the networking site offers a variety of valuable tools that you can put to use in your job search – and your career.

Leverage the full power of LinkedIn with these tips:

1. Clean Up and Optimize Your URL.

Your LinkedIn page is automatically given a URL that includes numbers and letters. You can better optimize it by creating a custom URL that includes only your name or certain keywords. For instance, rather than http://www.linkedin.com/in/marysmith/5/792/58a, you can change your URL to http://www.linkedin.com/in/sacramento_nurse or just http://www.linkedin.com/in/mary_smith.

To edit your URL, login and go to your “Edit Profile” page. Then go to the “Public Profile” section and click on “Edit” next to the URL to create a new one.

2. Network Your Way to the Top.

LinkedIn offers so many different opportunities for networking, not just among people you already know, but also by connecting with people from around the country – and around the globe – in your profession. For instance, you can search for industry or professional groups by clicking on “Groups” in the top navigation and search for a group you’re interested in. You can also filter results using the checkboxes in the sidebar navigation.

3. Make Sure Your Profile is Complete and Up-to-Date.

This is especially important for job seekers. Hiring managers will undoubtedly Google you and your LinkedIn profile will likely come up in the search results. So use that as an opportunity to make the best impression possible. Make sure your profile has been completed and is up-to-date with your education, skills, and work history. Also reach out to your network for some recommendations.

4. Do Your Homework.

Almost everyone wants to move up in their careers. But do you know the kinds of skills and education you need to land that next promotion? If not, then search the job titles you’re most interested in pursuing and learn more about the background and skills of the professionals who hold those titles.

5. Search Status Updates.

Connect with people in your industry who are interested in the same topics as you by switching the search bar in the upper right to “Updates” and searching status updates. You can even filter your results by using the checkboxes in the left sidebar.

Ready to Promote Yourself to a New Job in Sacramento?

If you are, we can help. As one of the leading employment agencies in Sacramento, California, we can identify your strengths and skills to help us find the job that is right for you. Contact Pacific Staffing today to get started.