Can Someone Never Use LinkedIn and Still Have a High-Paying and Successful Career?

It is a well-known fact that many successful CEOs and high-achievers do not have a LinkedIn profile or do not use it actively. Some are simply too busy, while others started their careers in an era when social media did not play a significant role in professional networking. However, times have changed, and LinkedIn has evolved from a mere platform for job seekers to a powerful tool for networking, showcasing one's professional identity, and building a personal brand. The question remains: can someone who never uses LinkedIn still have a high-paying and successful career?

The Problem of Visibility

The most significant challenge for cut-edge professionals who do not have a LinkedIn profile is that people do not know they exist. Having a profile is only the first step; visibility through consistent engagement is crucial. This includes liking, commenting, sharing, and writing posts or articles. These actions help to build a visible and active online presence, which is essential for attracting potential employers, clients, or collaborators. Without this visibility, it is difficult to get noticed for high-paying and rewarding opportunities.

Networking and Opportunities

Networking is a vital part of any successful career, and LinkedIn provides an ideal platform for this. Connecting with people in your industry across geographies can help you stay informed about trends, market changes, and job opportunities. It also makes it easier to send a message to someone in your network rather than going through the lengthy process of hunting for contact details or setting up appointments.

Furthermore, brands and organizations often seek individuals to manage their social media strategy and project their image. This means that even top executives may appoint someone to handle their social media presence, thereby increasing visibility and the brand's reach.

People prefer to interact with individuals they know or feel they know rather than faceless candidates. By having a visible and engaged presence on LinkedIn, you can develop a personal brand that aligns with your professional goals. People tend to trust and prefer to work with someone they feel they know, rather than someone they are completely unaware of.

The Value of Influencers and Referrals

It is unfortunate but true that in today's business world, 'who you know' often carries more weight than 'what you know'. Often, being referred to a company by someone who values and recommends you is more highly valued than passing through rigorous entrance tests and interviews. In fact, being referred to a job position is often the most effective way to secure a high-paying role.

For example, during my last two positions, I was recruited via LinkedIn and was not even aware that the positions were advertised anywhere else. These were six-figure positions at startup software companies. My LinkedIn profile provided me with the opportunity to interview, and my network and professional references helped me to validate my skills, making the process smoother and more effective.

The Case for LinkedIn

LinkedIn is a free tool that offers access to a vast network of contacts across numerous industries. Not leveraging this platform can limit your career prospects, especially in the modern business world. High-paying jobs are often not just about your accomplishments but also about who you know. Building a personal brand in your industry is crucial, and LinkedIn is a powerful tool for doing just that.

One success story that highlights the importance of LinkedIn is the case of the CEO who was unaware of a job opening at a prestigious firm. Someone in his LinkedIn network informed him about the position, leading to a successful job interview and a high-paying opportunity. This example underscores the significant role that LinkedIn can play in career success.

Conclusion

While it is indeed possible to have a successful and high-paying career without using LinkedIn, the platform has become an essential tool for networking, building a professional identity, and increasing visibility. The modern business world values connections, and leveraging LinkedIn can significantly enhance your career prospects, making it a valuable tool for any professional seeking success in today's competitive landscape.