tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585670524715113930.comments2022-03-25T07:17:48.334-07:00USDCareerBlogUSDCareerBloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04825830500256037731noreply@blogger.comBlogger83125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585670524715113930.post-67334095591638538082013-07-29T14:24:13.354-07:002013-07-29T14:24:13.354-07:00Organizations have many ways of hiring new talent ...Organizations have many ways of hiring new talent – and some do not post jobs online. You can certainly reach out to the organization with a well-crafted “prospecting letter.” Introduce yourself, explain how you can contribute to the organization, and express your strong interest in joining the organization.<br /><br />You can also try to identify current employees through networking sites such as LinkedIn, and ask for their recommendations regarding employment with the organization.<br />USDCareerBloghttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04825830500256037731noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585670524715113930.post-77576587164367613012013-05-14T15:16:06.515-07:002013-05-14T15:16:06.515-07:00Organizations have different procedures for handli...Organizations have different procedures for handling their recruitment and interview process. Some require initial phone interviews before arranging in-person interviews. Some require applicants to complete skills or personality tests. Some do initial interviewing here at USD Career Services, whereas others arrange first interviews at their offices. Some conduct a single interview, while others require two or three interviews before making offers.<br /><br />So there is no real difference in the types of jobs or organizations that conduct (or do not conduct) on-campus interviews. But initial on-campus interviews are certainly convenient for students!<br /><br />Whatever the procedures and requirements – your job as a candidate is to be as prepared as possible, to present yourself in a professional manner, and to convince the recruiter that you've got what it takes to succeed in the position.<br /><br />USDCareerBloghttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04825830500256037731noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585670524715113930.post-75903407541384043982013-04-16T14:51:45.404-07:002013-04-16T14:51:45.404-07:00Although there are no hard and fast rules – the so...Although there are no hard and fast rules – the sooner the better. This is especially true if you have reason to believe that the recruiter may be making decisions about offers or second interviews rather quickly. <br /><br />So we recommend that you leave the interview, get to a computer (or mail box), and send the thank-you email, or mail the hand written note the same day.USDCareerBloghttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04825830500256037731noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585670524715113930.post-44442950442013556782013-04-03T10:52:44.083-07:002013-04-03T10:52:44.083-07:00Video interviews have been around for some time, b...Video interviews have been around for some time, but the advent of laptops with built-in webcams has increased their popularity. You should prepare for the Skype interview as you would for any phone or in-person interview, and consider the following recommendations as well:<br /><br />Practice, practice, practice.<br /><br />During the interview, you’ll see yourself in the video camera, which can be unusual if you've never seen yourself on screen. Contact Career Services for instructions on practicing with Interview Stream<br /><br />Test the audio and video.<br /><br />Built-in video cameras and microphones vary in quality. Test out the video and audio capabilities on your computer. If they are subpar for an interview, arrange to use the resources at Career Services.<br /><br />Mind the background.<br /><br />Shoot your video against a blank wall or one-color background. There should be nothing behind you that is distracting or inappropriate (i.e., a window with a glare, posters, clutter.<br /><br />Avoid interruptions<br /><br />If you’re at home, turn off all phones and electronics and make sure they’ll be no interruptions or ambient noise. <br /><br />Look at the camera, not the screen.<br /><br />When you're looking at your monitor it actually makes the interviewer feel as if you're looking away. Instead, look directly at the video camera you're using for your interview. Although you're not making eye contact in the traditional sense, the interviewer will perceive that you're looking straight ahead.<br /><br />Dress professionally.<br /><br />Wear the same shirt, jacket, and tie (for men) that you would wear at an in-person interview.<br /><br />Exude enthusiasm<br /><br />It’s particularly important to speak clearly and enthusiastically in phone and video interviews. With the absence of other “body language” cues, all the interviewers have to go by are your face and voice.<br /><br />We hope this helps... good luck.<br /><br />USDCareerBloghttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04825830500256037731noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585670524715113930.post-50195955594023138802013-03-05T16:53:55.349-08:002013-03-05T16:53:55.349-08:00Absolutely. Some lucky college students know earl...Absolutely. Some lucky college students know early on what career path they’ll choose. Others take longer to find their niche. If you don’t know exactly what kind of jobs or industries you’re interested in, the job fair is a good place to gather more information about possible opportunities.<br /><br />But you don’t want to act indecisive and confused before a recruiter. Instead, let the recruiters know that you’re seeking a challenging position that offers the opportunity to apply the skills and knowledge you’ve developed during your college years. Many of the positions at Career Expo do not require a particular major or course of studies. Recruiters are seeking new graduates with strong skills (e.g., communication, leadership, initiative, problem solving) and/or experiences (campus activities, community service, part-time jobs, internships).<br /><br />So polish up your resume, dress professionally, and put your best foot forward. You may very well find an opportunity that’s right for you.<br />USDCareerBloghttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04825830500256037731noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585670524715113930.post-28691757379314011552013-02-20T18:48:10.318-08:002013-02-20T18:48:10.318-08:00We’re going to side with your mom on this one. Thi...We’re going to side with your mom on this one. Think of all written communication with recruiters and potential employers as “business correspondence” – which typically does not include inspirational messages, photos, icons, etc. <br /><br />We do recommend, however, that you create an “email signature” that contains your name, phone number, major (if you’re still a student), graduation date, and a link to your Linkedin profile. Creating a signature prevents you from having to manually type in your identifying information each time you send an email. <br /><br />Such professionalism might “inspire” the recruiter to interview you!USDCareerBloghttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04825830500256037731noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585670524715113930.post-49681958467777344202013-01-29T15:01:41.556-08:002013-01-29T15:01:41.556-08:00Don’t worry about changing your outfit for a secon...Don’t worry about changing your outfit for a second interview. Recruiters and managers understand that many college students and job hunters are on a limited budget and haven’t amassed a vast professional wardrobe. Just launder and iron the blouse, and re-polish the shoes, and you should be good to go.USDCareerBloghttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04825830500256037731noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585670524715113930.post-53774986565347342682013-01-11T15:12:31.017-08:002013-01-11T15:12:31.017-08:00You’re correct that your cover letter should not s...You’re correct that your cover letter should not simply repeat what’s on your resume. Instead, here’s what the cover letter should contain:<br /><br />Opening Paragraph: State that you are applying for a specific position and how you learned of the position, using a contact name when possible. Personalize the letter by saying why you want to work for this organization.<br /><br />Middle Paragraph(s): Succinctly outline the qualifications that make you a strong candidate. Relate your qualifications to the needs of the current job opening. Specific examples can demonstrate your skills and experiences.<br /><br />Closing Paragraph: Discuss your next action step. Repeat your interest in the position. Thank the employer for reviewing your resume.<br /><br />A well written cover letter creates a positive first impression and increases the likelihood that your resume will be read and your application will be taken seriously. Good luck.<br />USDCareerBloghttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04825830500256037731noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585670524715113930.post-88437826240885810902012-12-05T16:44:41.434-08:002012-12-05T16:44:41.434-08:00Great question.
Many job postings include Preferr...Great question.<br /><br />Many job postings include Preferred Experience and Skills and/or Required Experience and Skills. Whether you should apply typically depends on how close you are to meeting the preferred and required criteria. <br /><br />Obviously, if the position requires a particular degree or license that you don’t possess (e.g., an MBA or Licensed Clinical Social Worker) – there’s no point in applying. The same applies if the position requires, for example, five years’ experience and you have less than a year’s experience.<br /><br />However, you have more leeway when you don’t meet all the PREFERRED experience and skills. If you possess some or many of the preferred criteria – you’d be well advised to apply. In such a case you want to emphasize the background and skills that match the position. <br /><br />Consider this from the recruiter’s perspective. Sure, they’d love candidates who possess ALL of the required and preferred skills and experiences. But, how likely are they to receive applications only from candidates who meet every criterion in their laundry list of preferences? Not too likely.<br /><br />And here’s another consideration when applying to positions for which you only partially qualify… the person reviewing your application may be aware of a different position in the organizations for which you are better qualified. <br /><br />So use your judgment, and go ahead and apply to some of those “reach” positions – as long as your qualifications are in the general ballpark.<br />USDCareerBloghttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04825830500256037731noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585670524715113930.post-51744875582967358752012-11-15T16:55:47.162-08:002012-11-15T16:55:47.162-08:00Congratulations on knowing the importance of sendi...Congratulations on knowing the importance of sending an interview follow-up message. We’ve heard of recruiters who won’t even consider applicants who fail to send follow-up interview messages.<br /><br />There’s no hard and fast rule regarding how soon to follow up – but in general, the sooner the better. The person with whom you interviewed may be making a hiring (or second interview) decision rather quickly, so you want to insure that he or she receives your message quickly. The same day is fine.<br /><br />If you decide to send a thank-you note rather than an email, factor in the “snail mail” time lag.<br /><br />And we don’t think you can ever seem too eager. Recruiters actively seek candidates who are genuinely eager to get the job.<br /><br />Good luck.<br />USDCareerBloghttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04825830500256037731noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585670524715113930.post-35189260051916760782012-10-18T16:39:03.114-07:002012-10-18T16:39:03.114-07:00Good job. Sounds like you’re well prepared! You ...Good job. Sounds like you’re well prepared! You probably know all this, but here are a few additional pointers:<br /><br />Shine your shoes.<br /><br />Bring extra copies of your resume, placed in a portfolio (carried in your left hand so you can shake hands with your right hand).<br /><br />Lean forward in your seat during the interview.<br /><br />Exude enthusiasm and a genuine interest in the organization and the job.<br /><br />Ask questions about the job’s daily responsibilities and prospects for advancement with the organization.<br /><br />Follow up the interview with a thank-you card or email.<br /><br />Good luck!<br />USDCareerBloghttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04825830500256037731noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585670524715113930.post-12272244220490370922012-10-04T16:41:35.850-07:002012-10-04T16:41:35.850-07:00We get this question a lot – and it’s a good one. ...We get this question a lot – and it’s a good one. Here’s our response from an earlier blog entry....<br /><br />Different industries, companies and organizations have very different hiring practices and timelines. Some, like many accounting firms, hire a year in advance, whereas others hire “just-in-time” (when they need to fill positions). Some organizations (like the federal government) take many months to collect resumes, interview candidates, conduct background checks, contact references, and make offers. Others complete the process in days or weeks. And of course some organizations hire predominantly from their pool of interns.<br /><br />So here’s the bottom line – the earlier you start in the job search process, the better. Know your industry and the hiring practices of the organizations in which you’re interested. Gather all the information you need well in advance. Create a list of organizations for whom you’d like to work. Check their website and ToreroLink for job postings. Ramp up your networking. Fine tune your resume and cover letter. Schedule a practice interview at Career Services. Buy an interview suit. Then when the time comes to inquire about a position or submit an application – you’ll be all set.<br />USDCareerBloghttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04825830500256037731noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585670524715113930.post-40731444597237255732012-09-21T17:01:12.169-07:002012-09-21T17:01:12.169-07:00This is probably out most commonly asked question....This is probably out most commonly asked question. <br /><br />Although there are exceptions (usually with Teacher resumes, resumes for students returning to college after years of work experience, and resumes for graduate school applications that contain extensive amount of research experience), almost all new college graduates should create a one-page resume. Regardless of the amount of experience you have, this can be done by being concise, focusing on your most impressive and relevant skills and experiences, and adjusting the font size, spacing and margins.<br /><br />We know all the tricks - bring your resume into Career Services for a review. <br /><br /><br />USDCareerBloghttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04825830500256037731noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585670524715113930.post-8864574464147890752012-08-17T13:43:41.621-07:002012-08-17T13:43:41.621-07:00Sorry, but we have to go with your roomie on this ...Sorry, but we have to go with your roomie on this one. Although some recruiters may wait until the deadline date to review all the job applications, there’s nothing to say that they won’t review them on a “rolling basis,” i.e., as they arrive. In addition, recruiters might call, interview, and make offers to candidates before the application deadline. You may be a great candidate, but if you wait until the deadline, the position may be filled without your application ever having been reviewed!<br /><br />However, we don’t recommend you dash out a letter and resume to ensure that your application arrives quickly. You still want to carefully review the job posting, research the company, and then write a cover letter (if required) that speaks directly to the skills and experiences that make you an ideal candidate.<br /><br />So we recommend that you be quick, but also thorough – because you only have one shot at a first impression.<br />USDCareerBloghttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04825830500256037731noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585670524715113930.post-55257541019952018922012-07-25T09:16:36.214-07:002012-07-25T09:16:36.214-07:00Keep in mind that organizations’ hiring needs cons...Keep in mind that organizations’ hiring needs constantly change. Current employees leave, transfer, and move up. And new positions may be created. If you were a finalist, then you obviously have many of the skills and qualities the organization is seeking. So we suggest that you write a gracious follow-up email or letter thanking them for the opportunity to interview, and expressing your continued interest in working for them should their hiring needs change in the future. By doing so, you’ll leave them with a very positive and professional final impression. And you can continue to network with employees and apply to future job postings at the organization.USDCareerBloghttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04825830500256037731noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585670524715113930.post-65673702878195285732012-06-28T17:21:40.223-07:002012-06-28T17:21:40.223-07:00This is a common concern. Let’s start with your c...This is a common concern. Let’s start with your concern that contacting people you know makes it seem like you can’t get a job on your own. We would counter by saying that this is in fact one of the best ways there is to get a job on your own! Contacting people (i.e., networking) is how many applicants get their foot in the door and get interviews. So you’re simply doing what savvy job searchers have done for generations – networking. <br /><br />As far as imposing – ask yourself how you’d react if five or ten years from now a college senior you know approached you about opportunities. Chances are you’d take it as a compliment that someone values your knowledge and experience enough to reach out. If you could help, you probably would. So why not allow these people you know the same opportunity! They can choose to respond, to offer their expertise, to point you in the right direction. And if they can’t help, or don’t want to – that’s fine also. You need to cast a wide net in your job search.USDCareerBloghttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04825830500256037731noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585670524715113930.post-10273688757506000572012-06-11T10:05:44.200-07:002012-06-11T10:05:44.200-07:00It is true that some recruiters don’t read cover l...It is true that some recruiters don’t read cover letters, but since you don’t know which ones do and which ones don’t, we strongly advise that you continue to write well written letters tailored to each position. And of course, there are other recruiters who will only review resumes that are accompanied by letters.<br /><br />Every job application is different, so first and foremost we recommend that you follow directions to the letter (no pun intended)<br /><br />If you are emailing a recruiter, then you definitely want to include a cover letter in the body of your text, with the resume attached.<br /><br />If you are applying on an on-line job site and are given the option of including a cover letter, then we recommend you include a well written letter tailored to that position.<br /><br />We can’t emphasize too much the potential value of a well written cover letter. <br /><br />First, it’s typically the very first impression you will provide a recruiter. First impressions are critical.<br /><br />Second, it’s a reflection of your ability to express and organize your thoughts.<br /><br />Third, it provides an opportunity to highlight the most pertinent skills and experiences covered in your resume<br /><br />Finally, it also provides an opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge of the position and the industry to which you are applying. Your letter will stand out if you demonstrate knowledge of the company and speak directly to your most pertinent skills and experiences.<br /><br />So keep those cover letters coming – even if the occasional one goes unread.USDCareerBloghttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04825830500256037731noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585670524715113930.post-30399684791955313452012-05-25T11:07:48.367-07:002012-05-25T11:07:48.367-07:00First, we thank you for reading our posts dating w...First, we thank you for reading our posts dating way back to 2009!<br /><br />The reason some organizations require a writing sample during the interview (rather than submitting one in advance) is to insure that the writing sample is your own (i.e., not plagiarized, or proofread and edited by others prior to submission). The employer is unlikely to tell you the topic in advance, because they’ll want to see an example of spontaneous writing. So there’s no real way to prepare for this. They may ask you to write about an important person in your life, or a meaningful event, or a notable accomplishment. The topic you write about is secondary to the manner in which you write. So the focus should be on writing “basics” – spelling, proper punctuation and grammar, sentence structure, and so forth.USDCareerBloghttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04825830500256037731noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585670524715113930.post-44615766359477096282012-05-15T09:22:41.258-07:002012-05-15T09:22:41.258-07:00If by “really great,” you mean the summer job prov...If by “really great,” you mean the summer job provides excellent experience, and is challenging and interesting – then it seems like a keeper. The most important aspects of any summer position (whether an internship, volunteer experience, or part or full-time job), is the quality of the experience and the skills you’ll learn and apply. <br /><br />Do some of the following apply to this summer job? <br /><br />Are you gaining valuable experience and skills that may relate to your future career? Will future employers be impressed by your responsibilities in this position? Is the position challenging and interesting? Is the position in an industry of interest to you? Are there possible networking opportunities? Is there a chance this position could lead to a full-time position at the organization after graduation?<br /> <br />If you answer in the affirmative to several of these questions, then it sounds like a valuable and worthwhile experience.USDCareerBloghttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04825830500256037731noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585670524715113930.post-2984779515188423652012-05-09T14:39:21.027-07:002012-05-09T14:39:21.027-07:00We think you have a valid concern. There are prof...We think you have a valid concern. There are professions where it is critical to maintain strict “boundary issues” between your personal and professional life. And there may be personal safety issues as well. If you are uncomfortable having an online presence because of the profession you plan on entering and/or the population you will be serving – then we think it’s perfectly fine to avoid posting any online information that makes you uncomfortable. That applies to professional networking sites like Linkedin, and social networking sites as well.<br /><br />While we’re on the subject – some job searchers prefer to exclude their street address on their resumes for the same reason. Once a resume is posted on some public sites, or via email, there’s no telling who will view it. Although we suggest you include a city and state, we feel that excluding a street address is perfectly fine if you are concerned about confidentiality or safety issues.USDCareerBloghttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04825830500256037731noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585670524715113930.post-40292203721813773072012-05-04T13:22:40.496-07:002012-05-04T13:22:40.496-07:00We think it’s a bad idea if you’re joining groups ...We think it’s a bad idea if you’re joining groups for the sole purpose of “padding your resume.” And it can definitely backfire on you. Consider this scenario at a job interview:<br /><br />Interviewer: “So, Jennifer, I see you were a member of a great many student organizations. What role did you play in Group A?”.<br /><br />Jennifer: “Well, I went to one meeting, but I didn’t do much of anything.”<br /><br />Interviewer: “I see. So tell me what you did in these other six groups.”<br /><br />Jennifer: “Well, um, it was a really busy semester for me. I went to some meetings but I really didn’t have much time to get involved.”<br /><br />Not good. Recruiters and hiring managers will judge you by your skills, accomplishments, and personal qualities. They assess such traits as ambition,initiative, work ethic, and motivation. Simply joining groups demonstrates none of these qualities.<br /><br />However, recruiters certainly value candidates who are actively involved in one or more groups. Student organizations and professional groups offer you a great opportunity to apply leadership and teamwork skills; and to demonstrate initiative, intellectual curiosity, and career ambition. So we definitely recommend you identify one or more organizations of interest, and get actively involved – both for your own personal benefit and enjoyment, and to demonstrate the qualities and experiences sought by recruiters.USDCareerBloghttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04825830500256037731noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585670524715113930.post-2559599032612455242012-04-25T13:00:48.168-07:002012-04-25T13:00:48.168-07:00We’re to going to refer you to the Wise Geek artic...We’re to going to refer you to the Wise Geek article below that does a nice job of explaining a 1099 position (which refers to the Internal Revenue Service 1099 form).<br /><br />http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-1099-contractor.htm<br /><br />1099 positions can be totally “legit,” but as with all positions you should very carefully examine all facets of the job -responsibilities, the reputation of the organization, the pay, the duration of the position, and so forth. But be aware that you will almost certainly not receive employee benefits, such as health insurance or retirement benefits.USDCareerBloghttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04825830500256037731noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585670524715113930.post-41810799127793176142012-04-16T17:42:10.722-07:002012-04-16T17:42:10.722-07:00Let’s address the second question first. No, you ...Let’s address the second question first. No, you don’t have to tell them. But this puts you in the awkward position of refusing to answer a question that is not uncommon in job interviews. <br /><br />Now let’s tackle the first question. We generally recommend that you tell the interviewer where else you’ve applied or interviewed, if asked. There are several reasons.<br /><br />First, they may already know. Recruiters sometimes speak to one another – even ones in competing organizations – or hear information from other students. So you certainly don’t want to get caught in a lie by saying, "Well I’m not applying or interviewing with anyone else” when they already know you’ve applied or interviewed.<br /><br />Second, it’s highly unlikely that a prospective employer would object to your applying and interviewing elsewhere. You need a job so you’re wisely taking advantage of all opportunities and doing a thorough job search. No reasonable employer will begrudge your trying to find work.<br /><br />Third, candidates look good when they have multiple interviews. This just confirms the recruiter’s perspective that you’re an excellent candidate since other organizations see fit to interview you.<br /><br />What you don’t want to do is imply that you’re applying to each and every position that comes along, nor that the position to which you’re currently applying is not one in which you’re particularly interested. Instead, you’re considering other suitable opportunities, but feel that this particular position and organization is an especially good fit.USDCareerBloghttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04825830500256037731noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585670524715113930.post-73985382811775296522012-04-11T14:07:36.561-07:002012-04-11T14:07:36.561-07:00Think of Linkedin as a tool. If you buy a hammer ...Think of Linkedin as a tool. If you buy a hammer or a screw driver and put it away in a drawer, it also won’t be of much benefit to you. It needs to be used to be of value. We recommend you create a Linkedin profile and then make full use of it. That includes posting a complete and up-to-date profile and work history, including an appropriate head shot. Secure connections and network with them (and your connections’ connections). Request recommendations, join and participate in USD alumni groups and additional groups in your career field. And search for opportunities in the Student Portal.<br /><br />Some Linkedin users, depending on their career fields, use such Linkedin apps as WordPress, Google Presentations, and Portfolio Display to present their work in a professional manner. <br /><br />We suggest you start by learning more at Linkedin’s Learning Center: http://learn.linkedin.com/what-is-linkedin/.<br /><br />Think of Linkedin as one component of your career development and job search “toolbox” – and use it to its full advantage.USDCareerBloghttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04825830500256037731noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585670524715113930.post-77432941089400359112012-03-27T09:13:29.907-07:002012-03-27T09:13:29.907-07:00Thanks for the question.
For the uninitiated – a ...Thanks for the question.<br /><br />For the uninitiated – a Second Level Connection is someone who is connected to one of your First Level Connections. So, for example, if you have 100 First Level Connections, and each has 100 First Level Connections, you’d have about 10,000 Second Level Connections.<br /><br />But you can’t directly contact Second Level Connections (unless you’re a paid member of LinkedIn who has access to InMail). Instead, you’ll need to get "Introduced" by your First Level Connections. Once you’ve identified a Second Level Connection with whom you’d like to communicate, contact your First Level Connection through Linkedin and ask him or her if s/he’d be willing to introduce you. If your First Level Connection is willing to do so, and the Second Level Connection agrees, you’ll then be able to communicate with the Second Level Connection.<br /><br />Here are some other suggestions straight from the Linkedin Answers Forum:<br /><br />Join a common group with the person. As long as they have not blocked the feature on their end, you are able to communicate directly (through the LinkedIn system) with anyone who shares a group with you. <br /><br />Answer a question that the person has posted. This opens up a direct communication path (through the LinkedIn system) between the person asking and anyone answering a question. <br /><br />Look for their e-mail address embedded somewhere within their profile. Many people will place contact information in their profile such that it is visible to everyone instead of only their first level connections.USDCareerBloghttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04825830500256037731noreply@blogger.com