LinkedIn is an incredibly valuable tool, especially as intern application season is in full swing. However, using it can be intimidating, especially when it feels like everyone else is already ahead. Here’s my advice to help you become a “LinkedIn Warrior.”
- GETTING SETTING UP
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People say not to judge a book by its cover. Well, good thing your LinkedIn profile isn’t a book. Your profile is likely the first thing recruiters will see when reviewing your application.
It is essential to choose a professional photo of yourself. Now is not the time for Snapchat filters or group photos. Also, wear smart attire and use a professional background.
Your banner also plays a significant part in helping you look professional. Choose photos that reflect your ideal job field, college-adjacent photos (stadiums, buildings, logos, town), or go the extra mile and make a banner yourself using apps like Canva or Adobe Express.
Taylor Copeland - CONNECTING
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Connections are huge. Having a large number of connections not only enhances your perceived credibility, but it also is a great way to network and expose yourself to professionals in your ideal industry.
Through LinkedIn, I have personally connected with and had conversations with some of the top graphic designers in the theatrical industry. These conversations are wonderful when looking for advice or even a small dose of mentorship.
Connections are also helpful in getting your name out there. The more connections you have, the more the LinkedIn algorithm pushes your profile to other people with mutual connections.
@taylor.copeland via TikTok. - POSTING
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LinkedIn is a form of social media, so be social and upload media.
I personally upload my current resume, job acceptances, certificates, internship milestones, extracurricular events, and my proudest portfolio pieces. Any part of your professional journey is more than welcome.
Don’t be scared to post. You never know who’s watching or what opportunities could be heading your way.
Taylor Copeland - FOLLOWING
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LinkedIn is a great tool to stay up to date with your favorite companies and industry professionals.
I follow companies like Disney, The Broadway League, my favorite designers, my extracurricular pages, internship recruiters, and any other professionally focused pages I can’t necessarily connect with directly.
- BEING YOURSELF
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Yes, LinkedIn is a professional social media platform. That doesn’t mean it has to be a dry, joyless place. Be yourself by posting photos that show your personality, but are still professional.
Would you rather hire someone who posts the same formulaic content as everyone else, or someone who seems passionate and excited about what they do? It’s probably the latter.
Taylor Copeland
One last tip I would give is to set your LinkedIn profile to private before you start browsing, unless you want your 2 a.m. deep dive to notify every person and company you view (totally not speaking from experience).
LinkedIn can feel overwhelming at first, but the more you use it, the more confident you’ll become. Start with a polished profile, build meaningful connections, post your progress, and let your personality shine through. You don’t need to be perfect; you just need to show up consistently. That is how you become a “LinkedIn Warrior.”