Are you on LinkedIn?

LinkedIn is the world's largest professional network on the internet. You can use Linkedin to find the right job, connect and strengthen professional relationships, and learn the skills you need to advance and succeed in your career. If you aren't on LinkedIn or aren't active there, read this post to learn how LinkedIn connects the world's professionals, including social workers. It's not just for business majors.

Why "show up and show out" on LinkedIn?

Did I mention that LinkedIn is “the world's largest professional network on the internet?” While I enjoy meeting colleagues face-to-face, that's not always possible or the most efficient way to build our professional network. LinkedIn’s platform allows us to find, connect and build relationship with professionals around the world who share similar professional interests.

Other benefits of showing up on LinkedIn include:

• Demonstrating your expertise and interests,

• Creating networks and resources that are interdisciplinary,

• Joining professional groups in and out of your industry, and

• Discovering scholarship related to your field of interest and career goals.

Is it for social workers?

Yes, LinkedIn needs us too. Why? See all of the benefits listed above AND don't forget it also gives you the opportunity to amplify the social work profession and perspective.

“LinkedIn is the most powerful networking site available today, helping social workers discover inside connections to people, organizations, careers, and community partners. It strengthens and extends existing networks of trusted contacts and provides a means to engage with professionals from multiple disciplines. Additionally, it serves as a gateway to meet new contacts among millions of users.”

~ Jennifer Luna, MSSW, Director of the DiNitto Center for Career Service, University of Texas at Austin, Steve Hicks School of Social Work.

What resources are out there to help you learn more and get started on LinkedIn?

Check out the resource links below to learn more about LinkedIn and how it can support your work and career goals.

What is Linkedin and How Can I Use It?

7 Tips to Attract Social Work Recruiters to Your Linkedin Profile

And, How (and Why) to Protect Your Mental Health While Using LinkedIn.

47 LinkedIn Statistics You Need to Know

GROW as Part of Our Community

Building a professional community or network can help promote your career pathway as well as support your professional self-care and development accountably. The GROW Community stands ready to be an ally to you for the life of your career. You can join the community today on LinkedIn (GROW Development Institute). Let's connect and support each other. Ask questions, offer advice, and chat! The more engaged you are, the more you will get out of the community.

You can also find me via my individual profile, Tracey Kelley Neal, LMSW. If you are looking for additional support, let's chat.