In the realm of career management, there’s a broad range of digital tools at your disposal. Depending on your rank, only a few really matter. And those that do can make all the difference. But that is only if you know how to fully utilize them. Whether you’re seeking a significant promotion, a new job, heightened visibility, or professional relationships that matter, it is important that you know how to effectively use your LinkedIn profile.
S. Lynn Cooper, founder and chief social officer of Socially Ahead, will facilitate a special career development session entitled “LinkedIn to Move Up,†at the Women of
Power Summit (February 26—March 1, 2014, Boca Raton Resort and Club). Known for her seamless ability to easily navigate online platforms and drive traffic through social media, the Washington, D.C.-based Cooper specializes in training, coaching, and developing effective digital strategies for government, corporate, and nonprofit entities.LinkedIn is not a database, it’s a social network, notes Cooper. To really maximize it, you have to put yourself out there 100%–meaning you have to have a complete profile. Many professionals and business owners underestimate the importance of filling out an entire profile. That means it’s essential to list your skills and all past experience that may reflect your ability to execute and problem-solve, even if you think it’s irrelevant.
Moreover, you want to make it as easy as possible for people, whether they’re recruiters, vendors, potential clients, or current customers, to find you. Much of your ability to be found through searches will rest in the keywords you use in your profile and company pages. Try to incorporate words that are trending.
You also should be asking for positive recommendations and endorsement from clients, employers, and vendors. This can help qualify you in a field where people don’t know you. Cooper adds to be sure to share ideas, follow companies, and join professional or industry groups.
Cooper has been a featured speaker at the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), National Institute of Health (NIH), United States Peace Corps, and AARP. She is no stranger to the motto “hard work pays off.” Since launching her first company at the age of 16, Cooper has dedicated her talents and resources to help companies achieve success through innovative strategies and concepts that drive business to the next level.
Join Cooper at the 2014 Black Enterprise Women of Power Summit, hosted by State Farm, which is designed to help you explore all the ways you can achieve your professional and personal goals. This four-day event caters to executive women of color. It’s your opportunity to connect with other powerful women, develop professional strategies, and get expert advice from today’s leading female executives and decision makers. Register today!
CELEBRATING 10 YEARS! Join us for the landmark 10th Annual Black Enterprise Women of Power Summit hosted by State Farm, March 2—4, 2015, at Fort Lauderdale Harbor Beach Marriott Resort & Spa, Fort Lauderdale, FL. This exciting, one-of-a-kind executive leadership summit is designed to train, equip and encourage women to become industry leaders, learn career strategies, and discover proven work—life balance techniques. Register Now! https://blackenterprise.com/wps