LinkedIn - do you use it?

[InflatableBuddha]

I created a LinkedIn profile a couple of weeks ago to supplement in-person networking. As some of you may know, I'm currently employed, but I interviewed for a better position which was subsequently put on-hold.

I now have 21 contacts, and I just got asked to write a recommendation for one of my coworkers, so I'm going to do that over the weekend.

I searched for my two previous bosses, but they aren't on the site. My current boss is (and I have added him), but I'm hesitant to ask for a recommendation since I still work there - although I know he would give a positive recommendation. Should I still request one?

What are the most effective ways to use the site? Getting recommendations? Asking to be introduced to potential employers?

Has anyone landed an interview from using LinkedIn, or used it to land a job overseas?

 

[DesiPower]

I use it, IMO don't ask recommendation from current boss, unless you are about to leave.

Asking to be introduced to potential employers - works, if you see a job posting for a company, its easier to find someone working there.

Has anyone landed an interview from using LinkedIn - heard about a couple of cases of ppl landing interviews

 

[rcpratt]

I actually just signed up today, the communications resources manager for our department sent out an email encouraging us to sign up and join a group they created. But I haven't really "used" it yet.

 

[Tea Bag]

I approve colleague requests and that's about it.

I work for a pretty big company and while my coworkers seem to give positive recommendations to each other I haven't noticed managerial-types doing it for their reports, just people at the same level.

 

[AreaCode707]

I use it, and I try to only connect with people I like and whose work I would recommend.

I tend to ask for recommendations a few at a time at random. That way I never have a big gear-up "I'm clearly looking for a new job!" display.

 

[BlahBlahYouToo]

i have one and i have a ton of connections but i haven't really used it.

 

[InflatableBuddha]

I use it, and I try to only connect with people I like and whose work I would recommend.

I tend to ask for recommendations a few at a time at random. That way I never have a big gear-up "I'm clearly looking for a new job!" display.

That's a great tip, thanks. I haven't asked for recommendations yet (I will ask my coworker for one once I write his recommendation), but it makes sense to not request a lot of them simultaneously.

 

[Evadman]

i have one and i have a ton of connections but i haven't really used it.

Same here.

 

[TXHokie]

I've used it to find and refer former co-workers that I know would make excellent candidates for existing job openings. So while I haven't gotten interviews from it myself, I know it got interviews for others.

 

[mmntech]

I should use it but I don't. My industry is critically dependent on contacts. I have an account but never really set it up.

 

[Babbles]

I have an account but I do not know anybody who has actually been able to capitalize on any benefit of LinkedIn. I figure that it can't hurt to spend some time in making a profile - never know how it may turn out.

 

[bobsmith1492]

I got an account back in 2002... 10th grade. Didn't know it was still around! I'd have thought it would die out like so many other online things.

 

[jlee]

I have an account, but I don't use it for anything.

 

[RedCOMET]

I have an account, But its just used to have my work experience on line. Its looked to friends i iwish to keep tack with in a professional manner.

 

[kranky]

I have been contacted twice through LinkedIn for job opportunities, from recruiters. Make sure your job experience lists important keywords, and join some groups related to your field.

 

[dwell]

Nobody knows what linkedin is for but we all have accounts.

 

[Tiamat]

Nobody knows what linkedin is for but we all have accounts.

lol

 

[ArmchairAthlete]

This about sums it:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NcfXij6t4LA

 

[IHateMyJob2004]

I think my room mate from college was one of the people that was a first employee of linkedIn. Not sure though.