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Five reasons to start a LinkedIn account

Lynda.com is upgrading to LinkedIn Learning in September. Incorporating Lynda.com videos, courses and practice exercises focused on developing skills applicable in the workplace, it offers new ways personalize your learning.

If your LinkedIn profile is connected to CU LinkedIn Learning, you’ll see recommendations for videos, courses and other trainings applicable to your major and career goals. Once you complete a course, LinkedIn Learning lets you add a badge to your profile to highlight your new skills.

Here are five reasons you should create a LinkedIn profile:

Find a career

Beginning your career can be intimidating. On LinkedIn, you can filter job searches based on job titles, location and more. In addition, LinkedIn can recommend available positions based on your location, job preference, available titles and willingness to work with a recruiter.

Showcase your skills and experience

You've worked hard to build up your resume, share your skills and experiences with others. Your LinkedIn profile can act as an online resume to see exactly what you accomplished and learned. List internships, summer jobs, part-time and full-time jobs and even volunteer experience. An estimated 41% of hiring managers consider volunteer experience as valuable as paid work.

Stand out to recruiters

According to LinkedIn, 9 out of 10 company recruiters use LinkedIn to find eligible candidates. With a robust profile, recruiters will be able to reach out through the social media network to connect you with a position to launch your career.

Find the latest industry news

Can't stay on top of the news? Want to ensure you stay with trends? In your LinkedIn feed, you can define your career interests and see articles and news clips covering the latest news within your industry. Follow companies, influencers and industries to keep up with trends and issues.

Build your network

Networking strategies have changed thanks to LinkedIn. Similar to other social media networks, you can connect with former classmates, coworkers and supervisors to start creating your professional network. Remember: 85% of jobs are filled through employee referrals. 

Visit CU Boulder's webpage to learn more about the LinkedIn Learning update.