93% of recruiters and hiring managers turn to LinkedIn to find candidates for their open positions. This means that a strong LinkedIn presence is a must-have for a successful job search. If you’re in the market for a new position in accounting, there are a few things that you may want to consider while you’re building your LinkedIn profile. It is important to remember that it is all about branding and using the right keywords to attract the right employers.

• Change your headline. Your LinkedIn headline defaults to your most recent job title. It is essential that it doesn’t stay that way. Click to edit and add the description that best represents you as a candidate. For instance it may say, “Senior Staff Accountant | Experience with General Ledger, Budgeting, and Management of the entire Accounts Payable and Receivable Process.”
• Provide status updates. You want to stay connected and active on LinkedIn so your network sees what you are up to professionally. Once every other day or so share an interesting link you’ve found or an update on where you are in your job search. If you have a personal blog, share this information as well.
• Engage with groups. Joining groups automatically extends your network and this may include business leaders who are looking for people with your skills. You should add your expertise to ongoing conversations as well as start new conversations that can position you as an engaged and viable candidate.
• Grow your network. The key to successfully leveraging LinkedIn is to expand your network. Each time you add a new contact to your list you are also connected to their network. Use the “people you may know” option to invite more professionals to engage with you on the site. Thoroughly review the individuals who reach out to you and determine why they want to connect before accepting invitations.

Are you looking for your next accounting position? With locations in Los Angeles, Orange County, Phoenix, and Denver, VincentBenjamin can help you find your next opportunity!