In addition to changing the ways in which people read, write, and gather information, the Digital Age has changed the job market. A number of online resume sites like Visual CV have arisen in the Digital Age, creating an opportunity for employees and employers to connect via the Internet. Hannah MorganCite error: Closing </ref> missing for <ref> tag, "The social network for professionals has been growing at a rate of 10-15 million users per quarter.” As of November, the site boasts over 187 million members. While this may seem like an overwhelming amount of users, LinkedIn can be seen as a close-knit online community when compared with the amount of users on Facebook and Twitter (over a billion each). Unlike other social media sites, LinkedIn has a targeted membership: professional individuals, or people who are ready to enter the professional job market.
What is Linked In?
According to the LinkedIn[1] page, creating an account gives the individual an opportunity to:
- "Re-connect [with] past and present colleagues and classmates."
- "Power your career" by discovering "inside connections when you're looking for a new job or business opportunity.”
- "Get answers" by taking advantage of the "industry experts willing to share advice."
Features
Skills and Expertise
- Users enter their skills into a search box, and related skills are shown.
- This feature allows users to view other skills, and gives an opportunity to brush up on other skills that may be useful in the career field of their choice.
Groups and Answers
- Employees can seek help in answering business questions by linking with other business associates in the industry.
Today’s News
- LinkedIn users have easy access to news related to their industries.
- This gives users an important tool: relevant information about the industry that can be shared with co-workers and superiors.
Influencers
- The “Influencers” section follows industry leaders.
- It is important for users to know who’s who in the industry.
Endorsements
- Colleagues can assist each other by giving, and receiving, good recommendations.
References
Fiegerman, Seth. "LinkedIn Now Has 187 Million Members." mashable. Mashable, Inc., 1 Nov 2012. Web. 3 Nov 2012.
Morgan, Hannah. "8 Ways to Amp Up Your Career Using LinkedIn." US News. U.S.News & World Report, 14 Nov 2012. Web. 14 Nov 2012.
"What is LinkedIn?" LinkedIn. LinkedIn Corporation, Inc., nd, Web. 1 Nov 2012.