Get Linked to a Mentor on LinkedIn

When finding jobs or going through school, it can be a challenge trying to find the right mentor. LinkedIn is testing out a new service to support both employers and employees in the process. The service will allow users to find a valuable mentorship outside of their respective companies.

LinkedIn observed user’s activity to potentially solve the problem of lack of mentorship. Hari Srinivasan, director of product management at LinkedIn, found that over 80 percent of senior leaders of companies are willing to give advice about career options to people looking for jobs. Also, this was one of the most integral issues that people looking for jobs wanted to discuss with potential mentors.

Therefore, LinkedIn sought to solve the issue by creating a service that builds these important relationships. Unfortunately, the service is only available for members that will match them with other professionals who can give them necessary career advice. However, all users of LinkedIn will be able to use this service by the end of the summer.

Luckily, the process for the service is user friendly, accessible, and only a few steps. First, you access the career advice hub on your dashboard, Second, you sign up to be a mentor or a mentee. Third, you write a couple details about who you would like to connect with. For example, you might write about the industry you are in, or what type of advice you are searching for. Lastly, LinkedIn’s matching algorithm comes up with recommended matches. If the match accepts you back, you both are free to start chatting.

Clearly, this is a step in the right direction for LinkedIn. Not only is it a great asset for the company, but it also makes it much more organized for the users considering the pairing algorithm. We are excited to see the finished product at the end of the summer.