Why LinkedIn?

By: Ryan DuBois

I've been on LinkedIn for quite some time, and my experience has been nothing short of transformative. Initially, I used LinkedIn as a public resume, updating it with career milestones and job roles. It was a static presence that I rarely visited, especially when I was deeply engaged in my work. For a long time, I thought LinkedIn was just for finding a job, a tool to keep in my back pocket when the need arose. But my perspective has shifted dramatically, and I've come to realize that LinkedIn is so much more than that.

A New World of Opportunities

Since this past February, I've started engaging with the platform in a whole new way, and the results have been astounding. The connections I've made, the conversations I've had, and the knowledge I've gained have opened my eyes to a vast array of opportunities I never knew existed.

Heather Huhman perfectly encapsulates this transformation:

"LinkedIn is not a resume, it's a window"

It's a window into the lives, careers, and passions of people from all walks of life. Through LinkedIn, I've networked with numerous incredible individuals, learned about their journeys, and found ways we can help each other grow—in life, career, business, and even hobbies that intersect with leadership.

Personal Growth and Learning

One of the most surprising aspects of LinkedIn is the sheer amount of learning it offers.

John Nemo emphasizes the importance of building a personal brand, stating,

"The key to success on LinkedIn is to build a powerful personal brand that attracts your ideal clients and partners"

This platform is a continuous learning environment, where every post, article, and comment is an opportunity to grow. From expert insights to everyday experiences, LinkedIn is a treasure trove of knowledge.

Neal ?? Schaffer puts it well:

"LinkedIn is a platform where you can create opportunities for yourself, establish your expertise, and connect with others in your industry who share your interests and passions"

I've learned that 99% of people on LinkedIn are there to help, to grow, to learn, and to develop their skills. This collective mindset is inspiring. People aren't just looking for jobs; they're looking to build relationships, exchange knowledge, and develop themselves and others.

A Powerful Recruiting Tool

From an HR perspective, LinkedIn is an invaluable recruiting tool.

The saying,

"What you put out, you get back,"

holds true here.

If you're putting out great content and showcasing your leadership, you'll attract top talent.

Viveka von Rosen notes,

"On LinkedIn, you are not just a job seeker. You are a value creator"

This is crucial for anyone looking to build a team or recruit new members. By promoting the good you're doing for your people and your organization, you naturally attract individuals who resonate with your values and mission.

Being Human and Authentic

One of the most beautiful aspects of LinkedIn is the emphasis on authenticity.

William Arruda advises,

"Your LinkedIn profile is your personal brand. Make it authentic, compelling, and memorable"

It's a platform where being yourself is not just encouraged; it's essential. People want to connect with real, genuine individuals. Sharing vulnerabilities, successes, failures, and lessons learned makes you relatable and approachable.

Lewis Howes adds,

"LinkedIn is the only social media platform where people want to be advertised to."

This means people are looking for value, inspiration, and authenticity—qualities that build strong professional relationships.

Actionable Steps for LinkedIn Success

To make the most of LinkedIn, here are some steps I've found valuable:

• Use it Actively: Engage with posts, share your thoughts, and start conversations. Don't just lurk in the background.
• Create Valuable Content: Share your experiences, insights, and lessons learned. Be a source of knowledge and inspiration.
• Be Authentic: Show your true self, including your vulnerabilities. Authenticity fosters trust and connection.
• Network Strategically: Build meaningful connections with people who align with your interests and values.

LinkedIn isn't just a platform for job seekers; it's a vibrant community of professionals eager to learn, grow, and help each other succeed. It's a place where you can find mentors, collaborators, and even lifelong friends. The relationships you build here can propel you to new heights and open doors to new challenges, opportunities, and career paths.

As we move forward, let's continue to support each other, share our journeys, and inspire positive change in our professional communities. The world needs more positivity, more great leaders, and more authentic connections. And it all starts with each of us, right here on LinkedIn.

Committed to You, Committed to Excellence.

Your friend,

Ryan DuBois