Finding a job after an MBA is faster and easier when you exploit the potential of LinkedIn: a social network that has revolutionised the matching of job-seekers and companies looking for fresh talent and skills.

The ideal platform for all professionals, but especially suitable for MBA graduates: successful companies are increasingly frequently using the search tools provided by LinkedIn to identify potential candidates in possession of an MBA – a synonym of premiumness and high skill levels –among profiles published on the Internet.

So what’s the best way to use the assets offered by LinkedIn to secure the employment contract you’re looking for?

Let’s hear it from Bryn Panee Burkhart, Associate Director of alumni career development at MIT Sloan School of Management, in an article published in the Financial Times.

Here are 5 simple rules to maximise the appeal of your LinkedIn profile and stand out with respect to other candidates.

1. A complete profile speaks of attention to detail and offers companies the opportunity to perform a global assessment of potential candidates.

It’s not just a matter of entering basic data with an overview of your latest work experiences: to create an all-star profile, which is the most sought-after by companies, you need to upload a business-oriented profile photo, with details of your skills, educational background, and work experience, summarised in clear job titles. Your contacts network is important too: a complete profile should contain at least 50.

 

2. First impressions are important!

LinkedIn profile should open with a snapshot of your personality and professional skills. The introduction section should briefly highlight the candidate’s strengths, using a compelling and clear communication style to capture the curiosity of recruiters and persuade them to continue reading.

 

3. Be visible!

A good profile is an excellent starting point, but the next step is to make sure it gets seen. Companies use Google to check out potential candidates, so a search on your name should yield professional results. One winning strategy is to personalise your LinkedIn page URL with your name and surname to increase search engine optimisation on your profile. And don’t forget to enter a link to your LinkedIn page on your CV, digital signature and business cards, to incentivise potential employers to visit your profile.

 

4. Create a network with MBA alumni

Links between alumni, promoted by dedicated pages, are a great way to keep in touch with ex university colleagues employed by your target companies: a fast-track to getting complete information on available jobs and maximising the effectiveness of your offering.

 

5. Fewer contacts, higher quality

LinkedIn is a key tool to get in touch with professionals and recruiters: a more productive activity aimed at professional development, especially if the person proposing new links is a trusted contact. To adopt this approach, make sure your network is composed of respected and recognised professionals, able to provide you with a virtual introduction to new companies, supplying reliable references and based on real awareness of your skillset.