Stop Begging on the Timeline
If I log into LinkedIn and see one more post saying, “Please I need a job, anything will do,” I might just pull my hair out. Begging does not show competence. It shows desperation, and employers do not hire out of pity. They hire to solve problems.
Here is how you actually use LinkedIn to get hired in Nigeria:
- Optimize Your Headline: Instead of “Actively looking for opportunities,” write what you actually do. E.g., “Data Analyst | SQL & Python | Helping businesses make data-driven decisions.”
- Professional Headshot: We don’t need to see your party dress. Get a clean, well-lit headshot.
- Engage with Content: Don’t just scroll. Comment thoughtfully on posts from industry leaders and HR professionals.
- Send Cold Direct Messages (DMs): Reach out to recruiters with a short, value-driven pitch, not a life story.
- Turn on ‘Open to Work’: Use the recruiter-only view if you are currently employed and don’t want your boss to know.
The Power of the Cold DM
When reaching out to someone like me (an HR Consultant), keep it brief. Lagos traffic has already stressed me out; I don’t want to read a 5-paragraph essay in my inbox.
Bad DM: “Hello sir, how is the family? Please I am a fresh graduate with second class upper. I have been looking for a job for 2 years. Help me.”
Good DM: “Hi Chukwudi, I enjoyed your recent post on CV formatting. I’m a Digital Marketer with 2 years of experience growing social media engagement for retail brands. I noticed [Company Name] is expanding its digital presence. I’d love to share a quick 1-pager on how I can help. Are you the right person to speak to?”
See the difference? One is a burden. The other is an offer of value.
Build Your Personal Brand
You don’t need to be an influencer. Just share your learnings. If you just finished a certification, post about what you learned. If you solved a difficult problem at work or during your NYSC, share the case study. Make it easy for recruiters to see your competence before they even look at your CV.