I have been using LinkedIn as a business development, personal brand management, and recruiting and research tool for years. But I have to admit it has taken a lot of time to put the pieces together. The process can be overwhelming trying to navigate the many options available. In fact, at times it has felt more like performing magic than actually getting any tangible, traceable results.  The following pertains to a quick success story covering business development, research, and branding through a LinkedIn Poll, an incredibly user friendly tool.

LinkedIn Poll Success!!

This is actually a two fold success. I had lunch with a Chicago Tribune reporter several weeks ago and she mentioned a story that she was working on regarding social media policy within organizations. When I returned to my office I created a very easy to use LinkedIn Poll.

I circulated the poll out via Twitter, Facebook (Paladin Fanpage), LinkedIn Groups as well as my individual contacts. In addition, several of my colleagues here at Paladin sent the poll out to their clients and prospects. We had over 180 responses in a week along with two fantastic outcomes.

1) Paladin was able to get their client an interview for the Chicago Tribune article and, in turn, Paladin received a job order from the client the very next day.

2) Desert Rose Design, an agency that participated and left a comment in the poll, was contacted by the Tribune and made an appearance in the article as well.

Here is a recent answer to a PR Week question. I thought I would share it with you here:

What are some ways junior-level candidates can stay positive during an extended job hunt?

Jadey Ryndak

April 27 2009

A positive, energetic attitude is one of the main factors to determine a candidate’s success. Companies can teach a new recruit many skills, but every employer knows that a new hire’s actual success will be highly influenced by his or her attitude. So be sure to keep your enthusiasm at the forefront during your job search.

In order to stay positive, surround yourself with people who share your passion by seeking out associations and groups, and attending face-to-face and online events.

You can also stay connected by reading articles, subscribing to RSS feeds, and participating in related events.

Break the job-search process into small steps and view the accomplishment of each step as a victory. The best way to keep rejections from being traumatic is to have lots of opportunities in the wings. Cast a wide net and never stop networking and seeking opportunities.

Create a list of the roles you want and the qualities, abilities, and skills that you can offer. Read this list regularly before interviews and networking events, or even after a disappointment.

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