George is just one of the job seekers who have written to me asking what they should�put�in their LinkedIn Profile when they are�unemployed. It's definitely an issue because even though you, like many other people, are out of work, you want to present yourself in a positive light to prospective employers and to networking contacts.

Krista Canfield, Senior�PR Manager at LinkedIn has suggestions: "If you're currently unemployed list your current position as "open to opportunities." If you just recently lost your job, make sure you update your status field in your profile so your network knows that you're looking for a job. You can update it with, "John is currently looking for a finance position. Do you know anyone who's hiring?" or "Sarah is interested in freelance opportunities. Let her know if someone in your network needs help writing or editing." It's a quick and easy way to let folks you're connected to know that you could use their help."

Krista also, noted that "One member of ours was unfortunately laid off so he updated his status to show he was currently looking for a new position. He was able to find a new job within seven business days of being laid-off because someone in his network knew someone who was hiring."

It's important for anyone job searching or growing their career, and who is out of work or currently employment, to use LinkedIn to job search. Review LinkedIn's Back-to-Business Checklist for Job Hunters for tips that will help if you're re-entering the workforce, changing careers, or if you're laid off and are looking for a new position.

And here's more on how can you ensure that you're not missing out and you're using the full power of LinkedIn to job search.

More: LinkedIn

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Your LinkedIn Profile When You're Unemployed originally appeared on About.com Job Searching on Friday, November 20th, 2009 at 07:31:08.

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Do you have Thanksgiving travel plans? When you're traveling while you're in the midst of a job search, it's important to be able to not miss out on emails or phone calls from prospective employers. Hiring doesn't stop, just because of the holidays, and�staying connected could give you an advantage over other candidates who don't check�messages until they get home from a trip.

You won't want to miss out on a job opportunity or a conversation with a connection who can help your job search, because you're not at home or out of touch.� As long as you have the right job search travel tools with you, you won't have any problems accessing voicemail, email, or the Internet.

For me, my IPhone, besides being one of the best toys I've ever had, quickly has become an essential tool I can't do without. If you have one, or another smartphone,�get your phone set before you� go.� Download job search iPhone �apps that search for jobs by keyword and location, apply for jobs, �email job listings, keep track of your contacts, and even create a resume.

You don't need to spend all your time job searching, but if you spend a little while keeping your job search going, you'll be ahead of the game, instead of playing catch-up�when you get home.

More: Job Searching During the Holidays�| Job Search iPhone Apps

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Job Search Holiday Travel Tips originally appeared on About.com Job Searching on Thursday, November 19th, 2009 at 06:00:38.

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