Purpose Statement: This blog post will compare two articles on the value of LinkedIn to guide my own strategy in setting up and maintaining a LinkedIn profile.
Article 1 (from library database): "LinkedIn as a new selection method: Psychometric properties and assessment approach."
Article 2 (from internet): 5 Reasons LinkedIn Will Never Replace Your Resume
Put together, these articles made me realize that LinkedIn is an important tool in employer screening of applicants, and it has some specific qualities that resumes don't. For example, the use of images to draw attention makes LinkedIn unique, which the first article mentions. However, as emphasized in the second article, even a great LinkedIn profile can't replace a resume.
One reason for this is the individuality and flexibility that a resume allows for. LinkedIn doesn't let you choose a lot of formatting options, and it also has limits on length for different sections. Though there are best practices for resumes, there's still some creative license allowed.
Also, because a resume is shared only with an employer, there's some information that can be shared more freely—such as challenges with coworkers who might see the LinkedIn profile.
The first article also raises some challenges to LinkedIn, such as the fact that it could potentially lead to discrimination and thus be an illegal method of screening applicants.
Overall, both articles show that LinkedIn is a valuable tool. And though the second is more explicit about it, both show that it's not a panacea for applying to a job. Together with a resume and a cover letter, LinkedIn provides another resource for employees and employers. It seems that, while a bad or nonexistent LinkedIn profile might not rule an applicant out, a good one could certainly draw more attention through its unique aspects.
After learning this, I definitely think I'll put more effort into my LinkedIn page, especially on the visual aspects, and not feel like I need to get all the information from my resume on there. I now recognize that LinkedIn is a different tool that I have to use in a different way.
Hey Aidan,
ReplyDeleteI thought it was interesting to read about how LinkedIn compliments your resume, but should never replace it. One of the articles I read stressed that point as well. It seems that you can let a bit more of your personality come through in LinkedIn than on a resume, although it is still somewhat limited. As someone who avoided having an account until now, it's good for me to read about why it can be helpful :)
I see that it didn't have my name...this is Clara
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