How to Use LinkedIn In Your Job Search as a Person with a Disability
/
a laptop at a desk with white text “how to use linkedin as a person with a disability by world services for the blind” with the wsb globe logo in the bottom right corner
How to Use LinkedIn In Your Job Search as a Person with a Disability
At WSB, we work with clients who in the job search process all the time. One of the biggest components of our career training programs includes Employment Preparation classes. These classes go over everything from interviewing skills to searching for jobs. But have you ever thought about how to use LinkedIn in your job search as a person with a disability? It can be a great tool to utilize when it comes to connecting with those in the field and applying for jobs.
October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month, and this month on the blog we’re focusing on LinkedIn! Below are some tips on utilizing LinkedIn in your job search, especially as someone who is blind or visually impaired.
Fill out your profile fully
One of the biggest keys to utilizing LinkedIn to its fullest is by filling your profile fully. This includes listing your past job experience, volunteer experience, skills, and creating a headline section. If you’re searching for a job, your headline section can highlight your skills an previous experience.
Professional Photo
Make sure you are using a professional photo. A simple headshot is the most common on LinkedIn, especially because you don’t want to use a photo that you might use on other social media sites. A headshot is professional, which is what LinkedIn is all about! If you don’t have one, we recommend having a friend take one of you against a blank wall. You also want to make sure you are wearing professional clothing in the photo.
Job Search Feature and Save Job Searches
One of the most useful tools when it comes to LinkedIn is the job search feature. Once you fill out your profile fully, the job search function can be a great way to find jobs you might enjoy or fit your skillset. You can also save searches and they will be emailed directly to you!
Create Connections
Another great way to utilize LinkedIn is by creating connections. This may be through people you meet while on-campus at WSB (think of your peers, instructors, etc.), or it can include people in fields you might be interested in pursuing. If you are connecting with people who you may want to pursue an informational interview with, make sure you send them a personalized note when you connect with them. You can mention some of your past experience, and you are interested in talking with them about their career.
Join Groups
When you think of groups, you might just think of Facebook but LinkedIn also has a lot of different groups! Groups can be another way to gain connections and learn from others in the field. If you are new to vision loss, we know that networking in person can feel intimidating. Connecting with others in career fields you’re interested in through LinkedIn groups can be great way to connect online.