Network, Network, Network

Regular readers know that I’m a big fan of LinkedIn as a networking tool. I’ve been on the platform for more than a decade (since December 10, 2009 to be specific)! During that time, I’ve had MANY jobs in multiple states and started my own freelance business with clients around the U.S.

LinkedIn has been one of my top tools for connecting with others. It especially came in handy during the COVID-19 pandemic when almost everyone was working virtually.

This may seem like a lot, but remember, I’m a seasoned user constantly looking for new clients. I have also chosen to put the majority of my business social media effort into LinkedIn.

Simple steps for job seekers 

These are important, whether your brand new to the platform or have been on it a while.

• Update your profile (including picture). More and more businesses are looking at LinkedIn profiles, along with resumes/cover letters, for their potential employees.

• Update your notification settings (Account>>Settings >>Notifications). You don’t want to miss a message, connection request or comment on your posts!

• Send out at least five LinkedIn connection requests per month. Why five? With a free account, you can send up to five connection requests per month where you “add a note.” People are SIGNIFICANTLY more likely to accept your request if you let them know how you are connected. If you haven’t done this before, try this out by sending me a request! And read my previous post, Tell the Chef I Sent You, to see how this network can help you find a job.

IMPORTANT: Adding a note is different on a computer vs a mobile device instructions at bottom of post).

A note on your Note: Write something short. For me, you might say, I really enjoy reading your “Take it With You” newsletter. I’d like to connect on LinkedIn. (full permission to copy and paste that)

I always try to let the person know how I am connected to them, so you might add something like, “I’m also a former TV professional” or “I’m a fellow Midwesterner”.

This technique is helpful for a few reasons.

• It makes your request stand out (and seem more legitimate). It also shows you’ve taken time to look at their profile.

• Some people don’t get LinkedIn notifications frequently. They may not see your request for weeks, months or even years. This will remind them how they are connected to you.

• This becomes the first item in your “Messages” once they accept your request. If you can’t remember how YOU are connected to them later, it’s a great reminder.

Since you only get five per month, I’d save these up for people who you know less well. It’s perfectly fine to send connection requests to current colleagues without a note. However, when they accept, send them a thank you message that includes something like, “I’ve really enjoyed working with you on the _____ project.” (Again, a reminder for yourself years down the road).

I’ve got a few upcoming opportunities to grow your LinkedIn presence with support and accountability.

• If you’re a freelancer involved in creative work (including video production, graphics, journalism, curriculum design etc), join my free ~1 week long LinkedIn Sprint at the end of September. The goal is to collectively boost each other's LinkedIn presence! Sign up for details. Registration deadline is September 18.

• If you’d like to participate in my next free LinkedIn Sprint, fill out this quick form so I can let you know when it will happen. I’m hoping to offer this later this fall.

• Sign up to be notified when I offer my virtual workshop, Using LinkedIn to be a Powerhouse Networker.

PS: To keep myself and other fans of the arts entertained (remember, I am a Renaissance Woman after all), look for a reference to at least one song lyric or quote from a movie, TV show, play or musical. Message me on LinkedIn if you find it and you win…a virtual shout out in the next newsletter!

How to add a note to a connection request

Computer: Go to an individual’s profile page and select the “More” button below the headline. Choose the “Connect” option as shown below.

Choose to “Add a note”

Mobile Device: Choose the three dots

Pick the option “Personalize invite”. If you pick “Connect” you will NOT have the option to add a note. Should you accidentally choose “Connect”, you can remove your connection request but you may have to wait a few days before you can resend the request.

Hi! I’m Sara Kobilka, owner of Renaissance Woman Consulting.

I am a Renaissance Woman and part of my wider-ranging background includes time as a TV meteorologist/reporter, non-profit leader, higher education program coordination, and now, business owner. During each leg of this journey, I gained new skills that I was able take with me in my next step. Now, I work remotely with clients to help them confidently tell their story and navigate the transition to their next step on their career journey.

Take the Next Step

• Follow me on LinkedIn where I actively cross pollinate impactful ideas across industries and disciplines (and regularly share job opportunities I come across)

• Check out my one-on-one career coaching program or join a cohort of job seekers for small group coaching

• Sign up to be the first to know when I offer my workshops: Using LinkedIn to be a Powerhouse Networker and How TV News Pros Can Land a Remote Job.