Networking Tips for New Immigrants: Unlocking the Power of LinkedIn for Successful Job Search

Saju Thomson, Career and Executive Coach

Most new immigrants to Canada are highly tech-savvy. They tend to be younger and more comfortable with technology than the average Canadian. However, few fully utilize LinkedIn—a must-have professional networking tool—during job searches or career advancement.

Did you know that 85% of jobs are filled through networking and LinkedIn is a key platform for this? As a Career Coach specializing in supporting new immigrants and global expats, I’ve noticed that many overlook LinkedIn’s

Networking Tips for New Immigrants:

advanced networking features. With over 700 million users on the platform, standing out can be challenging. Here are some actionable tips to help you optimize your LinkedIn profile and make a lasting impression.

1. Personalize Your LinkedIn URL:

A custom LinkedIn URL not only looks professional but also makes your profile easier to share. Navigate to the ‘Edit public profile & URL’ section to create a clean, personalized URL like linkedin.com/in/yourname.

2. Create a Catchy Headline:

Instead of just listing your job title, include a catchy phrase that highlights your value proposition and makes the reader curious to find out more.  For example, a Digital Marketing Specialist could change their headline to “SEO Specialist Driving ROI through Content” or a Customer Service Representative could change it to “Expert in dealing with difficult customer”.

3. Exercise caution with “Open to Work” feature:

If you’re unemployed and actively looking for new opportunities, this is a great feature to let everyone know you are open to work. If you are currently employed and job hunting, you can enable the ‘Open to Work’ feature but customize it so that this is visible only to other employers to maintain privacy while signaling interest in new opportunities. Appearing selective also could service you well during salary negotiations. Most employers don’t like low hanging fruit – they like to feel that they have found a hard-to-find candidate who was only interested in their company.

4. Network strategically:

Instead of sending generic connection requests, personalize your messages. Mention mutual connections, shared interests, or specific reasons why you’d like to connect. This approach helps you build meaningful professional relationships. Review their profile to find common factors, such as education, past companies, or publications, to start a conversation.

5. Use the LinkedIn Profile Video Feature:

Take advantage of LinkedIn's profile video feature to introduce yourself to potential employers or connections. Create a concise, engaging video highlighting your skills, experience, and what you’re looking for in your next role.

6. Engage with Niche Groups:

Join LinkedIn groups specific to your industry or area of expertise. Active participation can help you connect with like-minded professionals, learn about job opportunities, and establish your authority.

7. Showcase Portfolio Work:

Upload samples of your work, presentations, or projects to your profile. This makes it easier for recruiters to see your expertise in action.

8. Seek and Give Recommendations:

Endorsements and recommendations add credibility to your profile. Don’t hesitate to request recommendations from colleagues or managers and reciprocate by writing thoughtful recommendations for others.

9. Leverage Analytics to expand your network:

LinkedIn provides analytics on profile views and search appearances. Use these insights to understand what's working and adjust your strategy accordingly. For example, if your analytics showed that several people at Telus had viewed your profile, use that data to see if there is any new job opening at Telus that fits your skill set. Even if you don’t see job opening for you, go ahead and connect with the person who viewed your profile. They could be looking for a position that could open in the future.

10. Use LinkedIn’s Salary Insights:

Explore LinkedIn’s salary insights to research industry trends and negotiate better offers. This feature provides valuable data on salary ranges, location differences, and more.

By incorporating these techniques, you could elevate your LinkedIn presence and open doors to new opportunities. Remember, LinkedIn is a dynamic tool for networking, learning, and career growth. Make the most of it!

For more tips on how to network and build your professional brand, please visit us at www.brickandcyber.com. Brick and Cyber Coaching Services is a career and executive coaching firm specializing in providing tailored coaching services for new immigrants and expatriate executives transitioning to careers in Canada and the United States.

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