If you’re a pharmacist who is currently seeking pharmacy job opportunities you’re probably going to use a CV or resume when submitting applications. But don’t underestimate the power of online social networking and make sure you have an updated Linked in profile too.
In a previous blog, I wrote about the Linked in profile as a tool in building your personal brand. Used correctly, it can be a critical step in your job search and very helpful for building your network for future opportunities.
To start, understand that Linked in is different from other social networks. Unlike Facebook, where you may only want to invite personal friends to access your information, Linked in is meant to connect people who don’t already know one another. Therefore, it’s imperative that you accept invitations even if you’re not sure who the person is.
Joining Linked in Groups is a great way to find people for your network. By joining Groups that are relevant to your interests you’ll find like-minded contacts to share content, trouble shoot, and discuss items relevant to your profession. It’s a great way to brand yourself as an industry expert or help you find mentors if you’re just starting out in your pharmacy career.
Next, make sure you have completed at least part of your profile. With a little effort your profile can go from bland to brilliant. Use a unique headline that describes your experience or expertise rather than simply putting "Pharmacist". You can take it one step further with the advice of career coach Kimberly Schneiderman, founder of Career City Services, and "create a summary about your career that fully describes your passion for your work, your impact in your company or companies, and your professional focus. People in an open job search can map out the kinds of opportunities they are pursuing next. Make it about three paragraphs and write in 1st person using "I" statements," says Schneiderman.
Use the tools of Linked in to your advantage. Meaning, get out there and network and reach out to new contacts. Do this often and avoid networking just when you need something. Send a congratulatory note or offer advice on someone else’s question or status update. Just like in "live" networking, online networking should be a consistent effort.
Linked In has many other tools. Does anyone have any advice on how to use Linked In? Post them here, and we’ll follow up later with more tips.
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