Social networks play a central role not only in our leisure time, but also in our jobs. Xing and LinkedIn, so-called career networks, are a presentation platform, digital CV and job exchange in one. However, if you want to make interesting contacts or find a new job here, you can't just wait for your luck, you have to take action. In this article, we will tell you how to use LinkedIn and Xing to give your career the right kick.
The two career networks Xing and LinkedIn are often mentioned in the same breath. This is because they are thematically very similar and thus clearly distinguish themselves from other networks like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or Snapchat. But despite the thematic proximity (job and career), it must be said that both platforms are also different from each other. While the Hamburg-based company Xing focuses on the German-speaking world, LinkedIn, which was recently acquired by Internet giant Microsoft, operates internationally. Accordingly, there are also different possibilities for you as a user. Those who register their profile with Xing primarily make German-speaking contacts and can search for regional job postings. At LinkedIn everything is much more international.
Career networks are based on a simple principle: if you want to benefit from this, you have to be prepared to reveal an above-average amount of yourself. For example, if you want to be found by a headhunter, you should take the time to provide detailed information about all your previous career stages. Also, information about volunteering, hobbies and organizations where you work is not uncommon on Xing and LinkedIn. You should also always pay attention to professionalism here. This starts with the profile picture! Take the time for a photo shoot with a good photographer. You will definitely need these pictures for other profiles and occasions!
In the summary you have a lot of space to write about your professional experiences. Be quite detailed and describe how you got where you are now, what makes you special and in which fields of work you are active.
Under the profile summary and within each job stage description there is the possibility to add links or relevant media via upload. Use this function!Are there any interesting newspaper articles written about you or your company? Have you given interviews or written guest articles on specialist topics yourself? Then link them into the section.
It is clear that the temptation to present yourself better or more successfully in career networks is great - after all, everyone wants to stand out from the crowd and outdo the competition. But beware! The only right way to (virtual) success is the honest one. Lies and even small fibs are easy to spot and make sure that the shot will backfire.
You have registered with Xing and/or LinkedIn and now you want to get the most out of it? Then you should first of all ask yourself what you expect from the network. Do you want to make new contacts or deepen existing ones? Do you want to start looking for a new job or even be discovered by a headhunter? If you know what you want, you should let this flow into the design of your profile. Career networks like to play with open cards. The users do not have time to interpret ambiguous statements.
If you want to use a career network to increase your success, it is essential that you are active. Simply creating a profile and waiting to see what happens is definitely not enough here. Make sure that your profile is always up to date and share relevant content with your contacts. Activities in groups and being interested in events can also help to make the best use of your networks.
We are very interested in what your opinion on career networks is. Do you use them? We are looking forward to your comments.
Your Coopers Team
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