3 LinkedIn Search Tips for Recruiters

June 20, 2013

If you find yourself searching for specialized talent, having a top search methodology can help you fill positions more quickly with qualified candidates.

Unforutnately, LinkedIn’s search function is not the greatest at doing that, especially if you do not have a paid account.
In fact, LinkedIn generates a lot of revenue from restricting search functions, and making them available through various premium accounts. Premium accounts allow users to search keywords and job titles through their network. You can also send direct messages, rather than connection requests.
So, if you are not in the market for a premium account, there are some other ways to go about reaching potential candidates. Here are three LinkedIn search tips for recruiters that should help you find top specialized talent for your startup or expansion-stage business.

1. Use LinkedIn Groups

A very simple and effective method to expand your network is to join multiple groups related to the type of role you are recruiting for. There are lots of groups to join, and they typically revolve around a specific type of skill in a particular area, like “Java Engineers in Austin” or “Web Designers of Boston.”
By joining groups such as these, you will be privy to a slew of related candidates by simply reviewing the “members” tab. Members of groups also are automatically added to your network, allowing you to expand your searches.

2. Leverage In-Network Introductions

If you come across a candidate profile and want to message them directly, you can be introduced through someone else in your network. If you want to contact someone that is two or three degrees of connections away from you, you can request an introduction through one of your mutual connections. This is a great way to contact a potential candidate.

3. Search for a Full Name

If someone is outside of your direct network, you are not able to see their full name or send a connection request. This can be a bit frustrating if you think that they might be a great match for the role you are recruiting for.
There is a way around this, however, and it’s very simple. Copy and paste the person’s header into a search engine like Google or Bing. Almost everyone has a public profile, and the search engine will be able to pull this up. You will be able to see this person’s full name and have the opportunity to send a connection request.
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If you’re struggling to find specialized talent for your growing business, these LinkedIn search tips should help you build a more robust strategy and I’m confident that you will find yourself accessing qualified candidates more frequently.

Recruiting Lead - Software

<strong>Katy Smigowski</strong> is the Recruiting Lead-Software at <a href="https://www.fitbit.com/">Fitbit</a>, where she is directly managing sourcing team, recruiting process and recruiting strategy dedicated to driving software hiring in our Boston office. Prior to Fitbit, she was a Talent Specialist at OpenView responsible for recruiting initiatives for both the firm and its portfolio companies.