"Relationships matter" is the philosophy of this professional networking site.  With over 17 million users worldwide and spanning over 150 industries, LinkedIn has elevated professional networking to an exceptional level. Some say that if you're unable to Google your name, then you don't exist. Having a profile on LinkedIn conveys the message to clients, employers, and colleagues (who have researched your name on Google) that you are "keeping up with the virtual Jones's" and that you actually do exist. If you do not have a LinkedIn account, please go to www.linkedin.com and catch up quickly!    Below are a few tips on using LinkedIn effectively:

 

1.   Be sure to  complete your LinkedIn profile because it positions you at the top in a Google search.

2.   Construct your profile with descriptive information, e.g previous organizations, schools, expertise, interests, and hobbies. This will help others find you when they search using keywords.

3.   Begin building your network by connecting with everyone with whom you have a real-life relationship.

4.   Some will argue that quality of contacts is more important than quantity; decide what's comfortable for you.

5.   Note the Answer section on LinkedIn; utilize this feature to receive valuable advice and to provide your expertise; this is one way to  "meet" new people.

6.   Share job postings with your network-you're more likely to receive "spot-on" referrals.

7.   Use LinkedIn to search for candidates.

8.   Recommend a first degree connection and request recommendations-this will increase your visibility on LinkedIn.

9.   Ask your connections to introduce you to their connections based on professional interests.

10.  The best time to build your network is when you're not looking for a job.

 

If you have a LinkedIn question or story - let me know! 

Julie Unger, Career Moves Professional Networks Specialist

 

If you're wondering what jobs will be hot in 2008, take a second look at last year's news. Major events and trends often set the stage for dramatic changes in recruiting and this year is no exception.

 

Headlines about soaring oil prices and the iPhone's introduction signal that more jobs will be created in such areas as alternative energy, online networking and mobile technology, say recruiters. Not surprisingly, though, some big stories are likely to be followed by substantial job cuts. Case in point: The lingering mortgage crisis has already resulted in mass layoffs for workers at many lending institutions, banks and real-estate companies. The jobs outlook for these concerns is expected to be even gloomier in 2008, say recruiters.

 

Away from the headlines, recruiters say demand should continue strong in health care and retirement planning as the baby-boomer population continues to age. And the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 will continue to drive hiring at accounting firms.

    
Here's a look at some of the biggest news stories of  2007 and their expected jobs-related impact in 2008:
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