Join LinkedIn even if you don't like social media!

When I teach the LinkedIn Overview workshop, I encounter quite a few job seekers who are on the fence. They have heard about LinkedIn, they want to learn more before joining, but their leaning is definitely anti-computer, anti-web, anti-social media, anti-facebook.

I have always approached them with some empathy, because I know this is difficult for the over 50 job seeker, who is not interested in computers and have never developed the skills. But over the years I have become firmer in my conviction that they need to sign up if they want to be serious about getting a job in the shortest amount of time.

It is an ongoing problem. When I began teaching job search skills to dislocated workers in 2002, I still encountered some people who had never had a resume and certainly did not have an email address. Those hurdles have gone away. The new hurdle is Social Media.

So, here are my key reasons for signing up for LinkedIn (and perhaps Twitter, Facebook and a blog).

1. If you are not on LinkedIn, recruiters will question whether your attitude and skills are too old fashioned. They will not look further, and will not give you a chance to voice all of your well thought-out objections to social networking. They will simply move on to the next name on the list of applicants.
2. The very process of creating a LinkedIn profile will strengthen your readiness to market yourself in a very competitive labor market. You will have to articulate your brand, your experience, your skills and the value you are presenting.
3. The ability to expand and manage your network is greatly simplified through LinkedIn. It is easy to locate former colleagues, friends, alumni and others with whom you may have lost touch.
4. Your presence and posts on LinkedIn will keep you visible to your network, so they will pass along suggestions, job leads and other good stuff.
5. You will have access to "influencers" who write great articles about job search topics. This helps you stay current on the latest thoughts about resumes, interviews, and trends in your industry or occupation.

Let me know the reasons you think LinkedIn is worth joining!