While many people think of LinkedIn primarily as a way for job candidates to showcase their professional experience for prospective employers and customers, LinkedIn is also a powerful tool for job candidates to vet potential employers.
A little while ago a friend emailed me the following request:
“I noticed there is someone in your LinkedIn network who used to work at Company X.
Company X is advertising for a YYY, and I am considering applying.
If you are able to, would you mind please facilitating an introduction?
First of all, I loved her approach. She:
- Used LinkedIn to do her research as a job candidate.
- Made her needs clear and concise.
- Gave me enough information to make an introduction, and
- She asked my permission (and very politely!).
As it turns out, I knew the Company X former employee well enough not only to make the introduction, but to give my friend some inside information.
“Actually, I think speaking with her would be a great idea,” I responded, “because from what I understand, Company X did not treat her very well when they let her go.”
The former employee agreed to speak with my friend, and as a result my friend learned the right questions to ask the employer during the interview process.
The outcome? My friend was offered the job.
And, weighing up everything she knew, decided not to take the job.
Don’t assume LinkedIn is just about employers, recruiters and customers getting the edge. For smart job candidates it can be a powerful component of your job search. You’re not likely to find this kind of company insight unless you do your due diligence.
