After reading Debra's blog post about how we are our own brand in the digital space, it really made me wonder. What am I doing to expand my brand? It makes sense what I ought to be doing, but I've been slacking. I don't have a LinkedIn account that I actively use, and I don't actively engage with my peers and superiors very often. This is going to change this semester, however. I feel the pressure of today's society to engage in this type of networking, and will jump to it immediately.
Debra's example of chronicling our progress through our school career was very interesting to me. It amazes me how far I've come sometimes, starting from being intimidated by small programs, and coming to being able to work in teams to accomplish goals I'd never imagine alone. I've made leaps and bounds in knowledge regarding Computer Science, and ought to show this somehow. This blog provides the perfect platform for that, as well.
After some research I found just how important a strong and active LinkedIn profile is. According to a study from ROI research, 59% of respondents claim LinkedIn is their most important account on social networks. This passes Facebook, Twitter, and other more 'casual' social networking websites. This is despite the fact that the average user of LinkedIn only logs in 2.9 times a month, according to the study. LinkedIn is on a pedestal in some sense, that people really respect what it has to offer, and what it can do for them. It offers a platform for individuals to show their work experience and skill sets, and network with like minded individuals. Facebook could do similar work, but the fact is that there are no alternatives to what LinkedIn does on the scale that it has risen to.
I'm working on my LinkedIn profile now, updating my resume, and thinking long and hard about my journey through my Bachelor's at San Jose State. I'm ready to show what I have to offer, and with a little help from Debra Caires, I will make it look good too!
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