These are 8 tips for MBA students on how to use LinkedIn. This will be especially helpful for students who are starting their program that are looking to use LinkedIn to help in the search for a job or internships. If you'd like to learn more about how MBA students can leverage LinkedIn, check out my blog. http://derekpando.blogspot.com/2014/01/linkedin-basics-for-mba-students.html

1. 8 Tips for MBA students
to leverage Linkedin

2. Before we get into the tips, remember this
principle.
LinkedIn is not about
collecting business cards,
it’s about relationships.
If you're connecting with someone because you need a
favor, you're doing it wrong. You connect with people to
build meaningful relationships that are a two way street.
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3. 1. Fill out the general information
No need to go crazy, but follow all the prompts to complete
your profile. This includes putting a picture that is
professional, where you are recognizable. Save your
motorcycle headshot for your Facebook page.

4. 2. Do not connect with people you do not
know.
Meet them first, talk to them, exchange an email, at least
something before you try to connect with them. If you don’
t, you’ll feel foolish later on when someone asks for an intro
to “some random person you accepted on LinkedIn.” Not
only that, but it shows you don't get networking if you're
connecting with strangers.

5. 3. When you do invite someone to connect,
send a personal message
Say it was nice to meet them, offer your help, reminisce
about the glory days in high school, whatever it is, make it
personal.

6. 4. Get a custom URL
This will help you be found on google search. You want
LinkedIn to be at the top of the results when people are
looking for you, otherwise they may find your 5k time from 9
years ago...or maybe worse.

7. 5. Use the “people you may know” feature
to increase contacts
LinkedIn has tried to make it as easy as possible by finding
who you likely know. It changes as your network grows, so
go back frequently to add people. Just don't forget rule #2.

8. 6. Become familiar with advanced search
Want to get a warm intro to the company of your dreams?
Want to find where all your alumni are working? Need to
find a job in a specific city? Learn how to use advanced
search.

9. 7. Ask for introductions
LinkedIn is the best way to find people in any company and
any job. Try to find people that have common connections
with you. Reach out directly to your common connection,
and ask for an introduction. It can be a great online tool to
build offline relationships.

10. 8. What goes around...comes around......
Your professional network is a two way street, help those in
your network. Proactively look for opportunities to help
other people, especially your classmates.

11. Any questions?
Email me: derek.pando@gmail.com
www.LinkedIn.com/in/derekpando