CBU students receive LinkedIn training at seminar

Riverside, Calif. (Sep. 20, 2019) — Hundreds of California Baptist University students learned how to navigate and optimize their LinkedIn profiles at a seminar hosted by the Career Center on Sept. 19.

During the seminar, students were given a tutorial on how to create a professional LinkedIn profile. Students also learned how to network on the platform and strategize for potential jobs. Additionally, at the end of the seminar the students had the opportunity to take professional photos to place on their profile.

Lisa Singer, associate director of employer relations, said that LinkedIn is not like any other social media platform. It is a professional networking site that helps build one’s professional online presence, she explained.  

“When I was your age, I could go into a potential employer and try to connect,” Singer told the audience. “LinkedIn can take the place of connecting with an employer face to face. Your profile is not supposed to mirror your resume, it is meant to accentuate it and create the narrative of why an employer should choose you.”

Jamie Jillson, career counselor at CBU, told students that a strong profile could draw job recruiters.

“Over 90% of recruiters actually use LinkedIn to vet their candidates. Vetting candidates is what recruiters can do to search your experience, education and your skills and qualifications,” Jillson said. “This is why you want to make sure your LinkedIn profile is strong, constantly updated and accurate.”

Ilyanna Capacete, a liberal studies senior, said she was encouraged to create a LinkedIn account after attending the seminar.  

“I think just knowing that it will be more helpful in finding a job after I graduate is my biggest takeaway,” Capacete said.

Amanda Gann, a biomedical engineering junior, appreciated the strategies for networking and making connections.

“It’s important to make sure you connect with employers you’re interested in and also people in general. It doesn't have to be someone you're like best friends with; it can be anyone that can help you get a job in the future,” Gann said.