20 Ways to Make the Most of LinkedIn Classmates Tool

With a tough job market ahead of them, most college grads have had the importance of networking drilled into their heads by recruiters, professors, experts, and even their own parents. Yet creating a great network is often much easier said than done, especially for students who have a hard time knowing where to start.

The situation isn’t hopeless, however, even for the most socially-challenged students. Sites like LinkedIn can be a big help for networking, and new innovations, like their Classmates tool, are making it easier than ever to get and keep in touch with valuable business connections.

Whether you’re still in school or graduated a decade ago, building a strong network of alumni can be an invaluable asset and an essential part of any networking strategy. Alumni can not only help you find job openings, but also give you insights into the working world and keep you in the loop about the latest developments. Using the new Classmates tool on LinkedIn, it’s easy to find old classmates or get in touch with more experienced alums in a given professional field. If you haven’t checked out this new feature yet or aren’t sure how to use it, here are some tips to help you maximize the benefits of building a strong alumni network through your existing LinkedIn profile.

1. Don’t just stick to people you know.
   There are likely a lot of alumni who currently work in your field that you never got to know while at school. Use the Classmates tool as a chance to connect and build your professional business network. You may find some valuable leads, or just a few new friends who share your interests.
2. Check out the companies where many grads got jobs.
   Jobs are hard to come by in many industries these days, and knowing someone who can recommend you or give you inside info can be a big help. Check up on alumni that work for companies you have interest in to help get your foot in the door.
3. Find out more about how degrees are being used.
   While you’re looking at the most popular companies for alumni, take a look at what majors are popular with these businesses, as well. If yours is near the top, it may be a good place to start a job search.
   
   
   
   
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