How to use LinkedIn to define and find your next career step
When you think about LinkedIn, do you see it as a platform to simply connect with colleagues or as a powerful tool to shape your career path?
If you’re a PhD student, postdoc, or master’s student searching for job opportunities, LinkedIn is far more than just a digital resume! It’s your gateway to career discovery and professional networking.
Yet, many early-career researchers overlook its potential. They create a basic profile, occasionally scroll through the feed, and miss out on the strategic networking that could elevate their career.
That’s the moment I thought that something needed to change.
Also, considering the first step to my current position happened on LinkedIn, I fully believe in the power of this platform!
In this newsletter, I’m sharing 4 powerful tips to help you grasp and use the full potential of LinkedIn, and get closer to your career goals. Whether you’re exploring roles, looking for vacancies, or aiming to build your network, these steps will help you make the most of it.
4 steps to make LinkedIn work for your career
#1 | Create a standout profile
Think of your LinkedIn profile as your digital CV. Keep it up to date and make sure it clearly showcases your expertise, technical skills, transferable skills, experience, and education (+ anything that can play in your favor). Don’t forget a recent, professional-looking photo. If you’re actively seeking opportunities, don’t hesitate to use the “Open to Work” banner. Recruiters, hiring managers, and headhunters often search for potential candidates and screen their profiles before interviews.
Don’t be afraid or even ashamed of using this banner! LinkedIn is a professional network and there’s no shame in using it to find your next job.
Let me give you an example of a strong LinkedIn headline:
“PhD in Molecular Biology | Experienced in Metabolomics & Data Analysis | Seeking Opportunities in Biotech & Pharma”
It shows your experience using keywords and the fact you’re open to talk to potential recruiters.
#2 | Discover career paths and job roles
If you’re unsure about which job titles or roles fit your skills, LinkedIn is an excellent resource. Use the search bar to look for alumni from your program or graduate school, and explore their career paths. Connect with or follow people in roles that interest you to learn about their career trajectories, responsibilities, and required skills.
Did you miss the previous NextMinds newsletter? It gave you a step-by-step protocol you can follow (using LinkedIn and your favorite generative AI model) to research job roles.
#3 | Find hidden job opportunities
LinkedIn is a goldmine for job postings. Companies often share vacancies directly on their pages, and employees sometimes post about job openings within their teams. Following companies you’re interested in and engaging with their content can help you stay on top of new opportunities.
#4 | Network with intention
One of LinkedIn’s most underused features is direct messaging. If someone’s career path intrigues or inspires you, don’t be afraid to reach out. A simple, polite message like this can go a long way:
“Hi [Name],
I came across your profile while researching career paths in [specific field], and I’m very impressed by your journey from [point A] to [point B]. I’m currently exploring my own career options after my PhD in [your field], and I would love to hear about your experience and any advice you might have. Would you be open to a short virtual coffee chat?
Best regards,
[your name]”
One tip: just stay yourself when you message people. They’re also people! No need to impress them or play fake. People usually seek genuine connections, so keep that in mind when messaging them.
📢 The Take-Home Message
💡 LinkedIn is a powerful networking and career exploration tool – don’t just scroll, engage!
💡 Use your profile as your digital CV, actively search for roles, follow companies, and reach out to people who inspire you.
💡 Building your network now will open doors for your career later. Start small, but just start somewhere.
Make LinkedIn work for you – not just as a profile, but as a bridge to your next career step.
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