Can you still create a Linkedin profile even though I haven't a job like in a professional sitting.?

[Stephanie]

I'm a college student (3rd year) who have in different settings. I worked as a Tour Guide, Store Associate, and at a restaurant. Since I will soon be graduating from college like in year and a half. I want to open a Linkedin profile but don't know if I should since everyone that I see on Linkedin are people that work or worked in very professional settings such like (Banks, Accounting Firms, and other good position) So my question is should I even bother?

[john]

Of course you should. That's one of the major reasons Linkedin is there. You graduate in a year or two and you need to create contacts. It doesn't matter that much if you don't have professional experience focus on your education and volunteer experience. It's just another social media site, no different then Facebook, just a different target market.

[babyrice]

Yes. It's a professional social networking tool, and you should be developing your professional network even when you're in school. Connect with friends, coworkers, professors that you've developed a good relationship with, and people that you meet at networking events. Even with the jobs that you've held, you've already developed skills that would be useful in the job market - whether it's communication, sales, or customer service experience. Highlight those aspects of the job in your LinkedIn profile. And if you participate in any clubs, associations, or do volunteer work, make sure to include those in Linkedin as well.

Recruiters browse Linkedin profiles, so it's very beneficial to have one, and it could help you in your job search!