4 Reasons to Make a LinkedIn Profile

Last updated January 8, 2026

In this article

Create your professional network
Build a professional online presence
Find a job or internship
Professional growth

With over 1 billion users worldwide, LinkedIn is the #1 social media platform dedicated to helping people build their professional networks. Your network can help you meet new people, make professional connections, explore career paths, and maybe even land a job or internship! No matter what stage you’re at in your career, making a LinkedIn profile now is a great way to start expanding your network. We share 4 reasons to make a LinkedIn profile!

Create your professional network

Your network can open new doors to opportunities that can level up your career. It can consist of anyone you’ve worked with in any capacity– like bosses, coworkers, members of clubs you were in, teammates, coaches, and educators. They can speak highly of your skills, abilities, and experience, introduce you to new people, and even provide a reference when you apply for a job. After setting up your LinkedIn profile, reach out to your network and send them an invitation to connect!

Build a professional online presence

Consider your LinkedIn profile to be your online resume– it should make a meaningful first impression on potential employers and showcase your skills, education, and experiences that make you the best candidate for a job. It’s now best practice to have your LinkedIn profile hyperlinked on your resume. In fact, a lot of jobs will allow you to apply online if you link your profile to their job application portal. Read our tips on building a standout LinkedIn profile!

Find a job or internship

LinkedIn has a job board where you can search for and apply to jobs and internships. In fact, many employers now use LinkedIn as their primary way to recruit and hire new employees! LinkedIn will send you alerts about jobs you can apply to directly by sending your profile and resume. Even if you are not actively looking for a new job, it’s always good to keep an eye out for future opportunities.

Professional growth

LinkedIn offers great (and completely free) resources to its users, such as professional and interest-based groups to join, articles, videos, online courses, and trainings. Be sure to take advantage of these resources to learn new things and gain some new skills!

Need some help setting up your LinkedIn profile or looking for a job? Connect with a Get Schooled Advisor.