Whether you’re already looking for a job or you just want to be ready as soon as you graduate, LinkedIn can be a huge help. However, the way you use the platform can have a big impact on your success. Use these tips to make the most of LinkedIn.

1. Complete Your Profile

Dedicate time to filling out all the fields on your profile. In particular, write a descriptive headline. If you’re not yet working, mention what you’re majoring in and your career goals. You should also include all your past work experience and education, detailing your job duties, the projects you worked on, and the skills you learned. Finally, upload any certificates or credentials you’ve earned.

2. Ask Your Contacts for Help

Make sure you’ve added everyone you know as a connection on LinkedIn, including people from university, your part-time job, and other areas of your life. If you need help with your job search, contact these people through the platform. Instead of scrolling through your list of connections (which may be long), use the advanced search function to find people who will be relevant to your needs, such as by searching according to location, industry, or job title. Even if the people you message are unable to help you find a job right now, they may at least be able to give you an endorsement for your skills or write you a recommendation, which will make you a more appealing candidate.

3. Reach Out to Second-Degree Connections

If you don’t have contacts who may be able to help you, reach out to second-degree connections. Find your most well-connected contacts and search their networks. Save five to 10 people and message them, using your mutual contact as a way to introduce yourself.

4. Add Calls-to-Action to Your Profile

Make it clear what you’re trying to achieve through your profile by adding calls-to-action. For instance, you may want users to check out your online portfolio, read an article you’ve written, or download your resume.

5. Message People Who View Your Profile

LinkedIn allows you to see who has viewed your profile recently, but the feature is limited if you have the free version of LinkedIn, only showing you a few users. If you are nearing your graduation date, are looking for an internship, or want to start working now, it may be worth paying for LinkedIn Premium. This will let you see everyone who views your profile as well as the profiles of all other users on the platform, rather than just your first-, second-, and third-degree connections.

Whenever users view your profile, send them a message. Most of them will be interested in finding more about you. Send them a short, personalized message using details you learn about them from their profiles.

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