If you’ve ever wondered whether LinkedIn is really worth your time as a student, the answer is a definite YES! While it might seem like a platform aimed at established professionals, LinkedIn is one of the most effective tools you can use to start shaping your future career — and students are currently the fastest growing group of users.
At its core, networking isn’t about formal events or collecting business cards. It’s simply about building relationships: with coursemates, alumni, academics, former colleagues and professionals in areas you’re curious about. LinkedIn makes this easier by giving you a space to stay connected, stay informed, and stay visible — all without leaving your laptop.
Creating a profile as a student allows you to showcase who you are and what you’re developing. Part-time work, volunteering, society involvement, projects, interests — these all tell a story about your growing experience and potential. Employers increasingly look at LinkedIn as part of their recruitment process, so having even a basic profile helps you establish your professional presence early.
Online networking also opens doors you might not realise exist. You can follow organisations, join industry groups, and connect with alumni who have walked the same path and are now working in roles you may aspire to. Many students find that a short, polite message to an alumnus leads to insight, advice, or even an opportunity they wouldn’t have known about otherwise.
Most importantly, the strongest networks are the ones you build before you need them. When you’re already connected and engaged, it becomes much easier to seek guidance, ask for support, or share your achievements when the time comes. Think of it as investing in your future career — one small interaction at a time.
So, if you haven’t yet taken the step, now is an excellent time to start. Set up your profile, make a few connections, and begin exploring the wider professional world. Your future self will be glad you did. Don’t forget to give Edinburgh Napier Employability & Careers a follow once you’ve created your profile to keep up to date with everything the team is doing.
You can also follow ENSA here.
This content was provided by Edinburgh Napier Employability and Careers
Employability & Careers are dedicated to providing tailored support for Edinburgh Napier students. If you would like to book a careers appointment or a mock interview, you can do this on myFuture.
You can also access their full range of career resources on myNapier.