Hacking LinkedIn
Goals:
- Make a first connection
- Get a job referral
Prep work:
First choose the company you’d like to work for.
Now find the best job opening at that company. *Not multiple jobs, the ONE job at that company which fits you best.
Q1. Do you have a first connection there?
If Yes:
Q2. Are they a personal connection (i.e. you actually know them) or not?
2A. If Yes: Lucky you!
Call your friend, ask his/her opinion of the job.
Send the job link and your resume. Ask for a resume review, then a referral.
2B. No (they are a first connection, but you do not personally know them):
Week 1: Like, comment or share a piece of their content, adding an insight of your own
Week 2-3: Send LinkedIn email: “We’re already connected but I wanted to send a note letting you know I value your insight.”
Weeks 2-3: Send the job link and your resume. Ask for a resume review, then a referral.
*** You do not have a first connection at this company ***
Q3. Do you have a second or third connection there?
3A. Yes you have a second/third connection:
Week 1: Like, comment or share a piece of their content, adding an insight of your own
Weeks 2-4: like/share/comment once per week.
Weeks 2-4: Send a connection request, writing: “I noticed we have a connection in common [name]. I saw your post about [topic] and value your insight, I’d love to connect and join your network.” *Do not ask any favors at this time.
You are now at step 2B. Start at week 1 above.
No you do not have a second/third connection:
- Go to the company’s LinkedIn page. Search in the people section for someone in your desired career field, request connections until one accepts you. You are now at step 2B or 3A.
*** If this doesn’t work, go to the backup plan ***
Same steps, except search for a recruiter at the company instead of someone in your career field.