Buzzword Advice for LinkedIn Users
January 5, 2011
I know that quite a few professionals are excited about LinkedIn.com, the “real” social network for job seekers. But my heavens, advice from a real journalist about buzzwords. Computerworld commands, “Don’t Abuse These Buzzwords on LinkedIn.” Computerworld never uses buzzwords, do they? No, no, never.
Actually, writer Angela West is reporting on a list compiled by LinkedIn of the ten most overused terms in 2011 LinkedIn profiles. “Creative” is number one, and “effective,” “motivated,” and “innovative” also feature prominently. West admits that a couple of the entries, like “problem solving” and “dynamic” can be used effectively in certain situations. The write up summarizes:
Most of the terms on the list fail because they are too general. Remember that your LinkedIn profile is your opportunity to showcase yourself as a unique snowflake, not to blend in with the rest of the job-seeking hordes. Be specific about what you can do, make sure to fill out your LinkedIn profile as thoroughly as possible, and let the hiring gods take care of the rest.
Not bad advice. However, it isn’t any smarter to reject these terms out of hand just because they are popular; some are popular for a reason. Users could find themselves unwittingly opting out of potential employers’ keyword searches if they avoid all the buzzwords. Here at Beyond Search we are too busy to hunt for “real” jobs like “real” consultants. Also, we try to use as many buzzwords as possible. A “real” consultant told us search engine optimization, fancy talk, and building online relationships is the next best thing to a hot fudge sundae with whipped cream and a 1,200 calorie cherry on top.
Cynthia Murrell, January 5, 2012
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