Unlocking LinkedIn: A Student's Guide to Professional Growth

When I first heard about LinkedIn, I wondered what made the app so special. At that time, I was only active on Facebook and just beginning to explore other platforms like Instagram and Twitter, which were also new to me.

After joining LinkedIn, I realized there is something unique about the platform that anyone who understands its usage will truly appreciate.

As a student now exploring LinkedIn and trying to become familiar with it, here are a few tips you might find helpful.

Start by researching the app. Think of it like preparing for an exam. When I suggest topics for you to study, it's up to you to learn them. If you study well and those topics, come up in the exam, you’ll find it easy to answer. Similarly, when a lecturer or a friend suggests you explore LinkedIn, don't stop there. Be curious about why you should join and what benefits it can offer you.

Ask questions. New things take time to get used to. If you find LinkedIn confusing, don’t get overwhelmed. Ask your classmates or friends for help on how to navigate the app properly. This way, you’ll quickly become more comfortable and interested in using it.

Connect with like-minded individuals. Some users initially lost interest in LinkedIn but later came back stronger and are now admired for their commitment and consistency. Connect with such individuals, observe their activity, and learn from them. Everyone learns from others to succeed.

Follow industry leaders: Identify and follow leaders and influencers in your field of interest. Gain valuable insights and inspiration from their posts for your LinkedIn presence.

Engage with content. You might not be posting every day, but your regular engagement by liking, commenting, and sharing others posts that resonate with you will make you visible on the platform.

Believe in yourself. It can be discouraging to post something and not receive any comments or likes. While likes, comments, and shares are part of the experience, what truly matters is the quality of the content you share. Success doesn’t come overnight. It takes passion, commitment, and even fear to turn your ideas into reality.

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Take action and watch your growth manifest beautifully.