So anyone who's talked to me in recent weeks knows I've been working on  LinkedIn curriculum development, primarily to educate Launch Pad Job Club members.  The first workshop went well, and I've gotten more and more positive response from the attendees, so my critical concerns are apparently my typical overly-self-critical.  I broke down the workshop into three new ones, so there is enough time and hands on for the participants. 

It's a tool that works better the more people use it, and the more people know about it the more likely they'll use it. Some of us are better at learning new things than others, and sometimes it's a matter of a little help. And I like helping folks.

I have three out of five presentations and all their associated handouts complete.  The fourth presentation is in it's second draft, and should be ready tonight (class is Friday). The Fifth I haven't really drafted yet, but I'm not offering that one, yet.   I also have an overview document with course descriptions, requirements, and other fun details. 

I've created two new presentations/demonstrations for different audiences as well. The Recruiters/HR one is going to be tested out tomorrow.  The Service Provider one I may need sooner than I think.

It's a serious  LinkedIn week.  Tomorrow I'm presenting/demonstrating LinkedIn to a recruiter's office; there will be 7-8 people in attendance.  Wednesday, I have two workshops, and Friday I have another one.  A week from Saturday, I'm doing the "Intensive".  It's been fun developing the classes.  Just have to print up the Surveys.


Getting Started with LinkedIn
Has someone invited you to LinkedIn and you aren't sure what to do?  Created a basic profile, but not sure how to make a better one?  This hands-on workshop focuses on building a profile and account settings, as well as discussing the overall value of LinkedIn as part of any professional development toolkit.  Expect to connect with other students in your class.  After class, you can get your profile reviewed with suggestions on improving it.

Connected with LinkedIn
You understand the value of social networking as an essential component of career development.  But how do you connect with old colleagues, and what about connecting to people you don't know?  By the end of class you will know how to use Invitations, Introductions, Groups, InMail, and Recommendations to build your network on LinkedIn to help you grow your network to find new opportunities.  If time permits, we will also cover Services, Answers.

Job Searching and Research Using LinkedIn
As a job seeker, you know the value of due diligence research on prospects.  LinkedIn can be integrated into your research toolkit.  Find out who's looking at you, do your own reference checks, and find out how you can utilize your social networking to get a foot in the door at companies.  During this class, we will do practical job searches, and when possible, do actual job applications on the LinkedIn site. 

LinkedIn Intensive
Five Hours.  Covers all three basic workshops:  Profiles, Account Settings, Connecting, and Job Search.  Expect hands on experience.  

LinkedIn for Recruiters and HR Managers
Trying to find good candidates can be time consuming.  LinkedIn can help you vet referrals using trusted contacts, and source candidates with a high ROI, as well as post positions, and find potential new business.  This presentation/demonstration will include basic overview of the tool, as well as do a live search for possible candidates.

LinkedIn for Service Providers and Consultants
As a small business owner or consultant, cost effectiveness is absolutely essential.  Learn how LinkedIn can build your business and reputation.Five Hours.  Covers all three basic workshops:  Profiles, Account Settings, Connecting, and Job Search.  Expect hands on experience.