LinkedIn is no longer a tool for the savviest of job seekers. A LinkedIn presence has become a basic necessity for anyone with career aspirations. While there was a time when simply having a LinkedIn profile could help set an ambitious person apart from the competition, now it's important to take some extra steps to get a professional leg up using LinkedIn.
The Benefits of LinkedIn Groups
LinkedIn groups enable you to make connections with people in the semiconductor industry that you're unlikely to encounter elsewhere. They allow you to demonstrate your expertise and show your value being a contributing member of the larger semiconductor community.
Social media in general, and LinkedIn in particular, give individuals today a greater ability than ever before to make the kinds of connections that forward careers. Luckily, you don't have to approach making those connections like an awkward sales pitch. To build a reputation in LinkedIn groups, all you have to do is join the conversation.
How to Use LinkedIn Groups
First, research what groups are out there that are relevant to you and join the ones that look like the best fit for you.
Here are a few of the most popular LinkedIn groups in the semiconductor space:
These sort of broad, high-level industry groups are just the tip of the iceberg. Seek out groups based on your more focused interests:
- Talent 101 has a group for Texas Semiconductor Professionals with nearly 2,000 members.
- Businesses you want to work for. Many businesses in the electronics space have their own LinkedIn groups. Freescale and Texas Instruments are a couple of notable examples. You should definitely join any group run by a company you want to work at!
In addition, join your college alumni groups and look for any local networking groups. The people in these groups can be some of the most valuable contacts you can make, since you already have a connection.
Bonus tip: Don't just look for groups with lots of members. Pay attention to how active they are. Are discussions happening? The groups with the most interactions are the ones you'll likely get the most out of.
Once you've found the best groups to join, start participating! Share valuable links you come across. Ask questions. Comment on other people's discussions. Make yourself seen by the others in the group.
By devoting some time each week to adding value to the LinkedIn groups you're a part of, you'll start to make a name for yourself and get on the radar of others in the semiconductor industry.
LinkedIn groups are a great start, but there's a lot more you can do to forward your career with LinkedIn. Our guide on LinkedIn for semiconductor professionals is packed with tips to help you out.
Who you know (and who knows you) has always been important to success in any industry. LinkedIn can be a powerful tool for making those valuable connections, as long as you take the time to use it well.
