Webinar recap: Expand your authority with the power of LinkedIn

This webinar was presented by the founder and CEO of LiveWire Collaborative, Angela Pitter (ENG‘86, MET‘93) on March 24, 2020. Angela has extensive experience in strategy development, social marketing, and executive coaching. The following paragraphs sum main topics from the webinar to make it easier for our alumni & friends to get the resources they need to get ahead in their careers.

About LinkedIn

LinkedIn was one of the first social networking platforms. Since Microsoft’s acquisition in 2016, the platform has grown in strength and functionality. Currently, there are over 675 million LinkedIn members around the world.

How to expand your authority on LinkedIn

Step one: Tell your professional story

  • Establish a digital brand with a professional photo/a branded “about” section.
  • List your current position and at least three past positions.
  • List your education (include your major and minor) and interests.
  • List at least five skills and three recommendations.
  • For an extra boost, add publications and special projects.

Step two: Discover people

Network building is crucial to your job search—70% of jobs are found through networking. Finding contacts to help you succeed will depend on your strategy. Some suggestions below.

  • Connect with past and present colleagues.
  • Reach out to business partners and clients.
  • Contact community leaders and business advocates.
  • Reconnect with fellow alumni using the BU Alumni LinkedIn Group.

Step three: Engage with your network

Establish your expertise online by sharing interesting articles, news, and projects to further develop your reputation. Below are some guidelines.

  • Post three to four times a week.
  • Like/comment on content others have shared.
  • Offer endorsements to past and present colleagues.
  • Engage readers by using hashtags, and asking for responses.
  • Add a link to your LinkedIn profile in your email signature.