LinkedIn, or other online porfolio/resume worth it?

[Ascendant78]

I have had a LinkedIn profile for years, but have never once used it for employment in my previous field of work. Being an undergrad with a physics major, I am trying to figure out whether or not it is worth hanging onto the profile and keeping it updated, or if LinkedIn is just not something that is used for this industry either? Also, if LinkedIn is not something that would typically be used for physics positions, is there any other type of online resume or portfolio website that is more commonly used, or do you simply provide a .pdf or hard copy of a resume for most positions?

 

[Jamin2112]

I got an interview with a good company by using LinkedIn. Employers liked candidates who have a LinkedIn profile.

 

[JakeBrodskyPE]

Like a resume, it is good to keep an active profile on various job search web sites. LinkedIn has the advantage of also offering insight into industry trends and concerns. Like all such forums, the signal to noise ratio can be poor at times, so YMMV.

 

[Ascendant78]

Ok, well thanks for the feedback. I guess I will just touch up on it from time to time for now, and will contribute more to it once I get closer to finishing my PhD. I figured it would be good to know now though so that I can attempt to connect with professors over these next several years. Not sure how much it will impact my credibility or hire-ability, but figure it certainly won't hurt.

 

[ModusPwnd]

Might as well, its easy enough to do. I haven't yet gotten anything out of my LinkedIn profile, but its there just in case.

 

[StatGuy2000]

To the OP:

I have a profile on LinkedIn and it has proven to be very helpful, both in providing links to open job positions as well as connecting me to various employers and recruiters -- in fact, I was hired in my current position through LinkedIn.

LinkedIn is also useful in connecting you with various like-minded professionals through discussion groups which you can join -- this would give you an opportunity to network with various people who could in turn connect you to positions that may be of interest.

 

[Ascendant78]

To the OP:

I have a profile on LinkedIn and it has proven to be very helpful, both in providing links to open job positions as well as connecting me to various employers and recruiters -- in fact, I was hired in my current position through LinkedIn.

LinkedIn is also useful in connecting you with various like-minded professionals through discussion groups which you can join -- this would give you an opportunity to network with various people who could in turn connect you to positions that may be of interest.

Thanks for the information. As far as the discussion groups, although I am a part of a few interest groups, I do not like the setup of the discussions on them. I really don't see myself using that as I feel my time could be much more well spent involving myself in other more organized resources.