LinkedIn: Your annoying best friend for job hunting

Let’s be honest — LinkedIn can feel like a strange mix of corporate self-promotion, awkward networking, and recycled motivational posts. For many, it evokes images of endless scrolling, generic connection requests, and the nagging feeling that you should be doing more. It can feel like that well-meaning but slightly overbearing friend who constantly advises you, even when you'd rather just be left alone. Unfortunately, in the high-stakes world of job hunting, LinkedIn transforms from an annoying obligation into your most valuable, albeit sometimes persistent, ally.

Whether you’re looking to break into a sustainability-focused startup, pivot into geospatial AI, or just stay on the radar of recruiters hiring for climate innovation roles, LinkedIn isn’t optional — it’s essential. Not because it’s perfect, but because it's where hiring decisions are quietly taking place. In this article, I’ll walk you through why it matters, how to make it work for you (without selling your soul), and the practical ways it can give you an edge in a competitive job market.

This article is only available to paid subscribers.

---

1. A practical tool for career success

LinkedIn is more than just a platform for when you're actively seeking a new role; it's a powerful tool for continuous career advancement through ongoing networking and knowledge acquisition. It isn't just a passive online resume, and when used strategically, it can significantly enhance your job search. Here are a few ways to leverage it effectively: