BETA
This is a BETA experience. You may opt-out by clicking here

More From Forbes

Edit Story

In Pictures: Expert Tips For Using LinkedIn

This article is more than 10 years old.

Expert Tips For Using LinkedIn

LinkedIn, the seven-year-old professional networking site based in Mountain View, Calif., offers all sorts of tools for job seekers. In April we ran a piece about how to get started on the site. Here is advice about how to make more advanced use of it. Most of the following tips come from Krista Canfield, a LinkedIn spokeswoman.

Search geographically for connections who work in human resources

Click the "Advanced" link next to the search box in the upper right hand corner of the screen. Then enter "human resources" or "HR" in the "Title" box. Choose "Current" in the drop-down menu below that box, and pick a location on the left side of the screen. This will help you find human resource contacts in your area.

Search for an HR connection at your dream company

Do an advanced search with the title "human resources" or "HR," and, in the "Company" search box, enter the name of the company where you'd most like to work. Choose "Current" in the drop-own menu below that box.

Search for a connection to your dream title or career

This is a good strategy if you're thinking of changing careers. Do an advanced search and enter a title you'd like to have, and/or a profession you'd want, in the "Title" search box. Choose "Current" in the drop down menu below that box.

Follow companies where you want to work

Go to the gray bar at the top of any page. In the center, hover over the word "More," and then click on the word "Companies." Enter your company of choice. Then click the link that says "Follow company" at the top of the page under the search box.

Ping connections at your dream company

Do an advanced search for the company where you most want to work. This should lead you to a list of LinkedIn users with whom you have indirect connections. Reach out to them via short e-mails with your shared connections' names in the subject line.

© iStockphoto

Stay in touch with your network

As you look for work, you should periodically go through your list of connections and send out short, personal e-mails to let people know you're available.