5 Misconceptions about LinkedIn: That are Holding You Back from its MAGIC

As a career coach, I see the magic of LinkedIn on a regular basis. Sometimes I have to encourage my clients move past their resistance so they can reap the rewards. Here are the top 5 misconceptions I hear when working with clients:

1. I’m embarrassed to reach out to people for help

Networking is not always about reaching out to people for help, it is about cultivating relationships. When you do need help, you will be surprised how readily people are willing to give it. Most of the people on LinkedIn have been in the same boat that you are in right now. They have needed help and now want to pay it forward. Also, participation in LinkedIn creates opportunities for you to help others, which can make receiving help feel more comfortable.

2. It makes me feel bad when I compare myself to others

Comparison is the thief of joy. Stay in your own lane. Your career is long and unpredictable. Stick with it and stay true to yourself. Following your own authentic journey is the key. LinkedIn can help you find opportunities, learn and grow in your career. Don’t let comparison to others take that opportunity away from you.

3. No one in my field uses LinkedIn

This used to be a valid argument, but this is becoming less and less likely. LinkedIn is helpful for almost all fields. Look up a few people in your industry, research a few topics relevant to your field. My guess is you will be surprised by how much activity there is on LinkedIn.

4. I don’t do social media OR I have too many social media platforms to manage

LinkedIn is not really social media. It is a platform to help you navigate your career. Engaging in LinkedIn is like having The Wall Street Journal delivered to you door every day. It is like a rolodex full of people who can support you. It is a place learn and build community. Most people on LinkedIn are there to develop their career in one way or another. By participating on the platform, you reap the rewards of this energy and focus.

5. If I engage in LinkedIn while employed it will raise eyebrows at work

LinkedIn is not a dating site. You are not being disloyal to your employer if you are on LinkedIn. LinkedIn is so much more than a job search site. It is a place to learn and build your career. If you stay active on LinkedIn the entire time you are at a job, engaging in LinkedIn will not raise eyebrows. Stay engaged so you are ready for when you want to look for a job and get inspired about new trends and developments in the meantime.