In this episode of the Experience Rich podcast, originally a YouTube video, we delve into effective LinkedIn strategies for job seekers, emphasizing how to connect with recruiters. 

Joined by Marc LeDuc, the discussion explores step-by-step instructions for using LinkedIn's search functionalities and filters to find relevant recruiters, as well as tips on crafting personalized connection invitations. Whether you're in event management, higher education, or another field, this guide aims to enhance your LinkedIn networking efforts to find your next job opportunity.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

00:42 Meet Marc LeDuc: Guest Introduction

01:18 Step-by-Step Guide to Finding Recruiters on LinkedIn

02:26 Filtering and Connecting with Recruiters

07:31 Crafting Effective Connection Requests

09:47 Final Tips and Encouragement

10:35 Conclusion and Additional Resources

Connect with Marc LeDuc: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marccleduc/
Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendameller/

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I offer a variety of resources to help individuals who are working but looking to change jobs or who are actively in career transition. 

Download this FREE "Do This Now" Checklist:
https://www.mellermarketing.com/dothisnow

OR if you're working but looking, download this FREE "Do This First" checklist:
https://www.mellermarketing.com/dothisfirst

I offer a variety of 1-to-1 LinkedIn coaching services including profile optimization. Read more here:
https://www.mellermarketing.com/1-to-1-linkedin-coaching

Have you considered starting your own business instead of finding a new job? If this is of interest to you, I'd like to invite you to join me on an upcoming Friday VIP office hours zoom session. It's the first Friday every month. The focus is on offering advice and tips for individuals who are in career transition and considering self-employment, or who are already working in a side-hustle / consulting while job seeking, and looking to lean-into self-employment.

https://www.mellermarketing.com/FridayVIP (it's free!).

Book a LinkedIn "Power Hour" with Brenda Meller
https://www.mellermarketing.com/powerhour 

Support the show

Book a LinkedIn "Power Hour" with Brenda Meller
https://www.mellermarketing.com/powerhour 

Support the show

• Info & register (free): https://www.mellermarketing.com/fridayvip
  
  
• Watch it on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/live/RzWdMwx1j1M?si=JpgPe7Ij01w4pEAF?sub_confirmation=1

Summary – VIP Job Seeker Office Hour – Friday, December 6, 2024

 - **Event Introduction**: Brenda Meller introduces the monthly VIP Job Seeker Office Hours, featuring job search experts like Kenneth Lang, Mindy Stern, Linda Brubaker, Diana Stephens, Joey Himmelfarb, and others. They offer career strategy, resume writing, coaching, and more (00:00-04:00).

- **All Stars Introductions**:

  - **Sue Mentors**: Global mentoring consultancy, support for job seekers’ progress (04:00-05:30).

  - **Mindy Stern**: Hosts an accelerator job search group, advises building networks (05:30-07:00).

  - **Diana Stephens**: Mindfulness-based career coach, focuses on managing anxiety during job searches (07:00-08:30).

  - **Jay Colan**: Career coach, emphasizes the importance of social networking in December (08:30-10:00).

  - **Linda Brubaker**: Hosts weekly job search support group, January session with Brenda (10:00-11:30).

  - **Paul Sacala**: Career coach, author of a recognized book for job seekers (11:30-13:00).

  - **Kenneth Lang**: Job search support groups, mentions Ed Han’s legacy (13:00-14:30).

  - **Joey Himmelfarb**: Focuses on helping job seekers sell themselves (14:30-15:30).

  - **Christopher Johnson**: Zoom expert, offers support for virtual event technology (15:30-17:00).

- **New Participants Introductions**:

  - **Daniel**: Seeking a client service associate position in Westchester County, NY (17:00-18:00).

  - **Greg Larson**: Seeking roles in quality assurance or validation in pharmaceutical industry in DC/Baltimore area (18:00-19:00).

  - **Olivia Veselli**: Director of Talent Acquisition, known Brenda from Walsh College events (19:00-20:00).

- **Q&A**:

  - **Jordan**: How to stand out in job search amidst changes. Advice includes networking, showing deliverables, and positive energy (20:00-27:00).

  - **Anonymous**: Verifying confidential job postings are not scams. Advice includes skepticism, confirming recruiter legitimacy (27:00-30:00).

  - **Tricia**: Tips for a second-round interview in BNY Mellon. Advice includes showcasing results, making it conversational, positive LinkedIn engagement (30:00-35:00).

  - **Angela**: Encountering issues with U.S. citizenship requirement despite correct application. Advice includes reconfirming citizenship status with hiring manager, considering pipeline management (35:00-40:00).

- **Zoom and Lighting Tips**: Brenda provides tips on framing, camera positioning, and lighting during virtual interviews (40:00-45:00).

- **Meller Marketing Job Seeker Mantra**: Affirmations to boost confidence and maintain a positive mindset during the job search process (45:00-50:00).

- **Event Conclusion**: Brenda wraps up with a positive note on job search being temporary and encourages attendees to download the chat and continue networking (50:00-55:00).

Book a LinkedIn "Power Hour" with Brenda Meller
https://www.mellermarketing.com/powerhour 

Support the show

00:00 Introduction and Episode Inspiration

00:47 The Necessary Evil of Job Boards

01:20 Optimizing Your Resume for ATS

02:15 Balancing Job Boards and Networking

02:33 Tracking Your Job Applications

03:00 Leveraging LinkedIn for Job Search

03:12 Engaging with Company Pages on LinkedIn

04:17 Increasing Visibility as an Engaged Candidate

05:18 Notifying Recruiters of Your Interest

Book a LinkedIn "Power Hour" with Brenda Meller
https://www.mellermarketing.com/powerhour 

Support the show

Why a Job Seeker Mantra is Key:

• Boosts Confidence: A positive mantra can help you believe in yourself and your abilities.
• Reduces Stress: Positive affirmations can help alleviate anxiety and stress associated with job searching.
• Improves Focus: A clear mantra can help you stay focused on your goals and avoid distractions.
• Enhances Resilience: A positive mindset can help you bounce back from setbacks and rejection.

Meller Marketing Job Seeker Mantra

• This is temporary.
  • Remind yourself that your current situation is not permanent.
• I am awesome.
  • Believe in your abilities and worth.
• You are awesome.
  • Recognize the value in others and build connections.
• I am valuable.
  • Understand your unique skills and experience.
• I will find another job.
  • Maintain a positive outlook and take proactive steps.
• The black hole isn't the only way.
  • Explore diverse job search strategies beyond traditional methods.
• I am in control of my future.
  • Take responsibility for your career path and make informed decisions.
• Using LinkedIn can help to give me power.
  • Leverage LinkedIn to network, build relationships, and find opportunities.
• Plus, by attending today, I am a step ahead.
  • Continuously seek opportunities to learn and grow.

Join me on an upcoming Friday VIP Job Seeker Office Hours to say the mantra with other job seekers: https://www.mellermarketing.com/FridayVIP 

Book a LinkedIn "Power Hour" with Brenda Meller
https://www.mellermarketing.com/powerhour 

Support the show

Legal Considerations:

• Review Legal Documents: Don't sign anything without legal review, especially separation agreements or severance contracts.
• Don't Feel Pressured: Employers must give you time to review documents.
• Avoid a Letter of Resignation: If you're being let go, don't give your employer a letter of resignation as it might impact unemployment benefits.

Benefits and Resources:

• Negotiate Benefits: Try to negotiate severance package benefits, such as extended health insurance.
• Check HR Manual: Review your HR / employee manual for additional benefits.
• File for Unemployment: File for unemployment benefits as soon as possible.
• Know Your Worth: Research market rates for your skills and experience.
• Ask to Buy Your Laptop and/or work-issued cellphone: especially if you don't have these at home.
• Save Important Information: Before leaving your job, save important documents, contact information, and work samples.
• Get Clarification on References: Ask your former employer if they're willing to provide a reference.
• Use Available Resources: Utilize local libraries, unemployment offices, and online resources.

Job Search Strategies:

• Utilize Resources: Take advantage of outplacement services and other resources offered by your former employer.
• Leverage LinkedIn: Update your profile, change your primary email, and network with industry professionals.
• Network Effectively: Attend industry events, volunteer, and connect with people in your field.
• Avoid the Black Hole: Don't spend all your time applying for jobs; focus on networking and building relationships.
• Seek Support: Join job seeker support groups and attend networking events.

By following these tips, you can increase your chances of a successful career transition and land your next job.

Book a LinkedIn "Power Hour" with Brenda Meller
https://www.mellermarketing.com/powerhour 

Support the show

• Rebuild Your Confidence: LinkedIn recommendations can be a powerful tool to rebuild your self-esteem after a job loss. By seeing positive feedback from colleagues and peers, you can regain confidence in your abilities.
  
  
• Leverage Social Proof: Positive recommendations act as social proof, validating your skills and experience. This can be particularly beneficial when applying for new jobs, as potential employers often rely on social proof to assess candidates.
  
  
• Strengthen Your Network: By giving recommendations to others, you're not only helping them but also strengthening your network. This can lead to future opportunities and collaborations.
  
  
• Take Control of Your Career Narrative: Actively seeking and giving recommendations allows you to shape your professional identity and take control of your career narrative. By proactively building your online reputation, you can position yourself as a valuable asset in the job market.
  
  
• Practical Steps to Implement:
  • Identify Supportive Contacts: Reach out to former colleagues, mentors, or clients who can provide positive feedback.
  • Draft Thoughtful Recommendations: Take the time to write sincere and specific recommendations, highlighting the individual's strengths and contributions.
  • Be Open to Receiving Feedback: Be receptive to receiving recommendations from others. This can provide valuable insights into your professional image.
  • Leverage LinkedIn's Features: Use LinkedIn's recommendation feature to easily request and provide endorsements.

Resources mentioned:

VIDEO - Wondering how to request a LinkedIn recommendation? WATCH THIS.
https://youtu.be/6US9qFqDlHk?si=1CPktdVPkYB4_6xX 

Book a LinkedIn "Power Hour" with Brenda Meller
https://www.mellermarketing.com/powerhour 

Support the show

• Start Slow and Steady: Begin your job search journey by gradually increasing your LinkedIn activity. Start with a simple task: spend 15 minutes daily scrolling through your LinkedIn feed.
  
  
• Curate Your Feed: As you scroll, pay attention to the content. Like posts that resonate with you, whether it's due to shared values, industry insights, or personal connections. Simultaneously, unfollow accounts that aren't relevant to your career goals. This helps refine your feed and expose you to more targeted content.
  
  
• Train the Algorithm: By liking posts, you're essentially training LinkedIn's algorithm to understand your interests. This subtle action will lead to a more personalized feed, filled with content that aligns with your career aspirations.
  
  
• Build Subtle Visibility: While you're engaging with content, you're also increasing your visibility on the platform. Even a simple like can draw attention to your profile. This low-effort, high-impact strategy can help you connect with potential employers and industry professionals.
  
  
• Prioritize Networking: Networking is a powerful tool, especially for experienced professionals. LinkedIn offers a platform to build and nurture relationships. By actively engaging with others, you can increase your chances of landing your next job opportunity.

Book a LinkedIn "Power Hour" with Brenda Meller
https://www.mellermarketing.com/powerhour 

Support the show

• Personal Experience: I share my own experience of career transition and the emotional rollercoaster associated with it.
  
  
• LinkedIn Focus: This podcast will focus on LinkedIn strategies to help job seekers, particularly those over the age of 40+, 50+, and 60+. By the way, I turned 50 in September. 
  
  
• Experience-Rich Mindset: I encourage listeners to embrace their experience as a valuable asset, rather than a liability.
  
  
• Positive Positioning: The importance of positive self-presentation and avoiding negative labels like "mature worker."
  
  
• Community Support: I emphasize the power of community and offer support to job seekers.
  
  
• Goal-Oriented Approach: My goal is to help listeners find jobs and ultimately stop needing this podcast's advice.
  
  

Resources mentioned:

Friday VIP Job Seeker Office Hours
I'd like to invite you to join me on an upcoming Friday VIP job seekers office hours zoom session. It's the first Friday every month.

https://www.mellermarketing.com/FridayVIP (it's free!). Feel free to spread the word to others who are in career transition, at any job title level and in any industry.

You can watch the playback of our latest call, along with previous calls, on this YouTube playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL4um17Ji5FVRyGTUrge3XRPJ8H1r06ac7

Book a LinkedIn "Power Hour" with Brenda Meller
https://www.mellermarketing.com/powerhour 

Support the show