LinkedIn Profile Checklist
LinkedIn is a powerful tool for job and internship searching because it allows students and professionals to showcase their skills, experiences, and accomplishments to a wide network of employers and recruiters. It also provides access to job postings, alumni connections, and industry insights that can help users discover new opportunities and stand out in a competitive market.
Why LinkedIn Matters
LinkedIn is the world’s largest professional networking platform. For college students, it’s a powerful tool to:
- Build a professional online presence
- Connect with alumni and industry professionals
- Discover internships, jobs, and career resources
- Learn from leaders in your field
What You Can Do on LinkedIn
- Create Your Digital Resume: Showcase your experience, skills, education, and activities
- Grow Your Network: Connect with classmates, professors, and alumni
- Explore Career Paths: Follow companies, search jobs, and join career-related groups
- Gain Insight: Read articles, follow industry trends, and learn from professionals in your field
Three ways you can get started on LinkedIn today
Grow your career with LinkedIn! From applying for internships and jobs, connecting with fellow Hatters, to exploring various career paths, use this advice to create your professional identity, start exploring opportunities, and grow your network.
Using a LinkedIn Checklist is important because it helps ensure your profile is complete, professional, and optimized to attract the right opportunities. From updating your headline and summary to adding relevant skills and connecting with others, a checklist keeps you focused on the key steps that make your profile stand out to recruiters and employers. It’s a simple but effective way to stay organized and make the most of your presence on LinkedIn.
Networking on LinkedIn
Start With Who You Know
You don’t need a long resume to start building your professional network. LinkedIn is one of the easiest ways to connect with people in your field of interest— even before you graduate.
- Classmates & Friends – Begin by connecting with fellow Hatters from your classes, student organizations, sports teams, and residence hall
- Faculty & Staff – They can be great references and may even share job leads or connections
- Stetson Alumni – Search "Stetson University" in the LinkedIn search, then go to "Alumni" on the main page. There, use the LinkedIn Alumni tool to find graduates working in fields you're interested in, explore locations across the globe, and find new industries
Send a Thoughtful Connection Request
Always include a personal note! Here are some simple message templates for next time you reach out:
Hi [Name], I’m a student at Stetson University majoring in [Your Major]. I saw you’re working at [Company] in a role I hope to pursue after graduation. I’d love to connect and learn more about your path!
Hi [Name], My name is [Your Name] and I am a student at Stetson University studying [major]. I see that you’re an [insert their position here], focused on [insert topic]. I would love to learn more about your experience with the company so far! Look forward to eharing from you, and Go Hatters!