2 answers
Ena
Student
Montreal, Quebec, Canada
71
Questions
Asked
1065 views
Do you have suggestion to university students who use linkedin?
Who I need to add?
What experience is not necessary?
Login to comment
2 answers
Gagan Singh Rana
GM, Chegg Test Prep
6
Answers
California, California
Updated
Gagan Singh’s Answer
LinkedIn has a great guide on what to include in your profile: https://university.linkedin.com/content/dam/university/global/en_US/site/pdf/TipSheet_BuildingaGreatProfile.pdf
A couple additional tips:
1. Start making connections with friends, family, professors, TAs! Whenever you meet someone new, from a job interview, internship, informational interview, talk on campus, make it a habit to add them on LinkedIn.
2. Make sure you add any part-time & summer jobs you've done. Recruiters are impressed by the job you had at a fast food restaurant or at the library on campus because it shows that you've been able to balance school and work, as well as you have "real-world" work experience.
Jacki Ostipow
2
Answers
Updated
Jacki’s Answer
Hi Ena! I didn't start building my LinkedIn profile and network until after college, and here are a few things I wish I'd started earlier:
1. Connect Thoughtfully: Start by adding people you know—classmates, professors, internship supervisors, and friends from extracurriculars or volunteer work. Then, expand your network by connecting with professionals in your field of interest, alumni from your university, career advisors, and industry leaders. Personalize connection requests with a brief message explaining why you want to connect.
2. Curate Your Network: Quality over quantity. It’s better to have a network of engaged connections who know you and your goals than a huge list of random contacts. Focus on building relationships—you never know which connection might lead to a mentorship, internship, or job opportunity.
3. Showcase Relevant Experience: Include internships, part-time jobs, volunteer work, class projects, and leadership roles—especially those that highlight skills related to your career goals. Experiences that demonstrate teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and initiative are valuable.
4. Skip Unnecessary Details: You don’t need to add every single job or task that doesn’t relate to your goals. For example, summer jobs unrelated to your career path can be briefly mentioned or left out if you have stronger experiences to highlight. Focus your profile on what shows your growth and professional potential.
5. Engage and Learn: LinkedIn isn’t just a digital resume—it’s a community. Follow companies and influencers you admire, join groups related to your interests, share articles or insights, and comment thoughtfully. This increases your visibility and shows you’re engaged and motivated.
6. Keep Your Profile Updated: Regularly update your profile with new skills, courses, certifications, and experiences. A complete, polished profile with a professional photo, compelling headline, and clear summary makes a strong impression.
Remember, LinkedIn is a tool to tell your unique story and build meaningful connections. Start early, be authentic, and stay curious. Your network and opportunities will grow as you invest in yourself and others.
1. Connect Thoughtfully: Start by adding people you know—classmates, professors, internship supervisors, and friends from extracurriculars or volunteer work. Then, expand your network by connecting with professionals in your field of interest, alumni from your university, career advisors, and industry leaders. Personalize connection requests with a brief message explaining why you want to connect.
2. Curate Your Network: Quality over quantity. It’s better to have a network of engaged connections who know you and your goals than a huge list of random contacts. Focus on building relationships—you never know which connection might lead to a mentorship, internship, or job opportunity.
3. Showcase Relevant Experience: Include internships, part-time jobs, volunteer work, class projects, and leadership roles—especially those that highlight skills related to your career goals. Experiences that demonstrate teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and initiative are valuable.
4. Skip Unnecessary Details: You don’t need to add every single job or task that doesn’t relate to your goals. For example, summer jobs unrelated to your career path can be briefly mentioned or left out if you have stronger experiences to highlight. Focus your profile on what shows your growth and professional potential.
5. Engage and Learn: LinkedIn isn’t just a digital resume—it’s a community. Follow companies and influencers you admire, join groups related to your interests, share articles or insights, and comment thoughtfully. This increases your visibility and shows you’re engaged and motivated.
6. Keep Your Profile Updated: Regularly update your profile with new skills, courses, certifications, and experiences. A complete, polished profile with a professional photo, compelling headline, and clear summary makes a strong impression.
Remember, LinkedIn is a tool to tell your unique story and build meaningful connections. Start early, be authentic, and stay curious. Your network and opportunities will grow as you invest in yourself and others.