LinkedIn or Cutout

LinkedIn or Cutout Last week LinkedIn’s initial public offering roared out of the gates pricing at $45 per share, at the extreme top-end of the underwriters expectations, providing it with a healthy valuation of $4.25 billion. It was the biggest US Internet IPO since Google, but interestingly, the company only made $15.4 million in 2010, reflecting a new investing craze in the Internet space. But what is more important is the explosive growth of LinkedIn members currently exceeding 100 million, and according to the company, they are adding a new member every second. That works out to be 31.536 million new members per year. However you slice it, it’s a remarkable portal for professionals. If you are not registered on the site–and updating your professional information regularly–you are missing out on one of the most significant leverage points for your career. It’s not only about job hunting, it’s a network that you can use daily to communicate with other professionals who have shared interests or information. As evidenced by LinkedIn, career management is a whole new game today, and smart professionals are well advised to get on the bandwagon.

Tony LoPinto is the Global Sector Leader of Korn/Ferry International’s Real Estate Practice and founder of SelectLeaders. The views expressed in this article are the author’s own.

PALMER CAPITAL, INC. Capital Markets Partner (SACRAMENTO) The partner will be responsible for underwriting, marketing, structuring debt and equity, and the management of client relationships; among other duties.