1. Update your profile

Firstly, a bit of housekeeping. Your LinkedIn profile is a little like an online handshake with a potential employer - and we all know first impressions count.

If you’re thinking about starting your job search, first make sure your profile is fully completed. Members with profile photos receive up to 21x more profile views, and having your current position listed could make you receive up to 10x more messages that create opportunity.

Got skills? Don’t be afraid to show them. Members with 5 or more skills listed on their profile are discovered up to 27x more in searches by recruiters. And if you want to show examples - don’t forget you can upload presentations, videos, and other media to your profile.

Don’t forget to add information on your industry and education - as well as a short intro that tells your connections a little about yourself. Because you never know when your your next boss could also be a highly skilled video editor with a passion for extreme fishing.

2. Message your connections

Spotted your ideal role, and want to speak to the recruiter directly? Or perhaps you want to find out more about the company from someone who actually works there?

It’s simple - start with messaging the people you know! You can also share attachments on-the-go (such as your CV or portfolio), create group chats with like-minded professionals, and even add voice notes or emojis for a more personal touch.

3. Ask for a referral

Job applicants who are referred by an employee are 9x more likely to get hired.

Getting a referral is easy. If you have a connection who works at the company you’re interested in, simply tap the ‘Ask for a referral’ button just under the Job Description. Because good things come to those who ask, right?

4. Get career advice straight to your inbox

Wish you had an impartial career mentor at the touch a button? You can match with a mentor on LinkedIn that’s tailored to your requirements, industry and interests to help guide you through your job search and beyond. Check out our Career Advice feature here.

5. Signal you’re open to opportunities

Over 300,000 companies use LinkedIn to find and hire talent. So don’t just search for a new job. Let it come to you.

Simply head to the ‘Career interests’ tab on the Jobs page and turn on the quiet signal that lets recruiters know you’re open to opportunities that fit exactly what you’re looking for - from specific job titles to cities and start dates.

6. Size up your potential salary

When applying for a new role, “that” conversation around salary can sometimes be an awkward one.

With LinkedIn Salary, you can see a detailed breakdown of salaries by job title, companies and location. Discover your earning potential and equip yourself with insights that allow you to better approach salary discussions with your potential new employer.

7. Start searching!

The LinkedIn Job Search bar is pretty special. Filter through 20 million recent job listings by experience, interests, skills, location and much more… You can even set up job alerts based on your preferences.