LinkedIn is one of the most searchable social networks, with many users filling out their profiles with as much detail as a resume. LinkedIn offers deep occupational and professional data, making it crucial for sourcers and recruiters to learn how to effectively search for potential candidates.
LinkedIn's Search Interface
LinkedIn's search interface is robust, supporting full Boolean logic (AND, OR, NOT) for keyword and structured field search (current/past title, current/past company, and school). This allows the creation of complex and precise search strings. Notably, there seems to be no limit to the number of characters/words LinkedIn's search can accept. Even with a free account, users can save up to 3 searches.
X-Ray Searching LinkedIn
The majority of LinkedIn profiles are public, making them searchable on the web. By default, profiles are set to "Full View," enabling search engines to index them. Using Internet search engines like Google with the site: command allows X-Ray searching of all public LinkedIn profiles, regardless of network connections.
Focused X-Ray String for Google
To efficiently search for LinkedIn profiles, a focused X-Ray string can be used targeting "in" or "pub" in the URLs of profiles.
X-Ray String to Search for Current Title
Employing Google's wildcard operator, a string can target LinkedIn profiles where the current title is listed.
Unlocking "Private" Profiles
Encountering private profiles on LinkedIn can be addressed by following specific steps to unlock them.
Advanced Operators
LinkedIn offers unique advanced operators for hand-coding search strings that control structured fields without using the advanced search interface. This feature allows for precise searches based on keywords and structured field data.
Conclusion
Mastering LinkedIn sourcing techniques involves utilizing various search methods available on the platform. Each method has its pros and cons, making it essential to understand and leverage them effectively.
LinkedIn's Search Interface
LinkedIn's search interface is robust, supporting full Boolean logic (AND, OR, NOT) for keyword and structured field search (current/past title, current/past company, and school). This allows the creation of complex and precise search strings. Notably, there seems to be no limit to the number of characters/words LinkedIn's search can accept. Even with a free account, users can save up to 3 searches.
X-Ray Searching LinkedIn
The majority of LinkedIn profiles are public, making them searchable on the web. By default, profiles are set to "Full View," enabling search engines to index them. Using Internet search engines like Google with the site: command allows X-Ray searching of all public LinkedIn profiles, regardless of network connections.
Focused X-Ray String for Google
To efficiently search for LinkedIn profiles, a focused X-Ray string can be used targeting "in" or "pub" in the URLs of profiles.
X-Ray String to Search for Current Title
Employing Google's wildcard operator, a string can target LinkedIn profiles where the current title is listed.
Unlocking "Private" Profiles
Encountering private profiles on LinkedIn can be addressed by following specific steps to unlock them.
Advanced Operators
LinkedIn offers unique advanced operators for hand-coding search strings that control structured fields without using the advanced search interface. This feature allows for precise searches based on keywords and structured field data.
Conclusion
Mastering LinkedIn sourcing techniques involves utilizing various search methods available on the platform. Each method has its pros and cons, making it essential to understand and leverage them effectively.