A beginner\'s guide as to why you should use LinkedIn.

1. WearCapeFlyCreating Super Communication StrategiesAGuide to Using LinkedIn

2. LinkedIn Benefits LinkedIn is not about connections, it is about productivity. Connections = Stagnant. Network= Alive and Ready to Help. Ireland: Nov 2010- 353,000 users- March 2011 423,000 users. Treat it like a trade show- network, network, network!

3. Your Profile Putting more content, rather than less, will make your profile more likely to come up in searches. Be as open as possible, you want to be found. Your title is important- It’s what people see when they accept your invite, and it’s probably the fastest first impression one receives Get Recommended

4. LinkedIn Groups Become known in your professional community, engage in discussions It makes it easier to grow your network and you can contacting other members in your group See who is hiring, get hired

5. LinkedIn Connections More you grow your network the more effective it is, but do so smartly Search Functionality is exceptional Search hypothetical positions. Narrow search results: the target company name, the location or the possible job title etc

6. LinkedIn Connections Personalise Your Invites Don’t simply measure ROI on the size of your community Dedicate your time

7. Common Mistakes Never access your profile but still expect results Spelling, grammar and punctuation errors in the main profile. Proof Read! Only invite people that you’ve met or you know Do not share your thoughts and what you are doing as you would on twitter or other platforms.

8. Summation Using LinkedIn proactively leads to real results New business Extra revenue New Opportunities Is LinkedIn something you can afford to be without?