Wait... are you even using LinkedIn properly?

Hey 👋

Pauline here.

Some of our readers have asked whether AI writes this newsletter. Well… maybe I’m just that good 😏

Heads up: This is a long read, but totally worth it. Brace yourself!

This is Green Jobs Rising, your companion on the path to finding jobs that help save the planet.

This week, I came across a post from a recruiter that I just had to share.

It’s full of practical advice on how to use LinkedIn the right way, especially if you're looking for international remote work or trying to break into new opportunities from Africa.

Let’s be honest, job searching isn’t just for recent graduates or the unemployed.
You could be employed but quietly looking for something better, more flexible, or more aligned with your goals.

Increasingly, young professionals across Africa are actively seeking remote job opportunities.
They want to earn an income and still have the freedom to live life on their own terms.

According to James Watare, a recruiter on LinkedIn:

He says that local roles mostly rely on referrals, even if they show up on LinkedIn.

Many of us still don’t know how to use the platform well.

So he gives some advice:

Before you write LinkedIn off as a scam, ask yourself, Are you using it right?

But here’s why LinkedIn doesn’t work for many people:

You create a great profile, polish it up... and then just wait.

It doesn’t work like that.

 What actually works:

• Connect with the right people
  LinkedIn is not Facebook or TikTok.
  Don’t add just anyone.
  Follow and connect with people in your field or those you’d like to work with.
  If you're a teacher seeking a remote teaching job, connect with professionals in the industry; HR managers, educators, students, decision-makers, not engineers or doctors.
  Quality > quantity.
  20 relevant contacts > 1,000 random ones.

• Target European and Eastern European markets
  Many of these countries have smaller budgets - they can’t always hire American talent. That’s your chance to shine.

• Niche down

Ouch! He just stepped on my toes.

Who’s in your LinkedIn circle?

Remember, LinkedIn is not Insta or X, niche down!

The platform is indeed a goldmine. From teaching to consulting, even doctors can land remote consultancy roles.

Yes, an African expert can advise American or Indian doctors if they’re seen as knowledgeable and up to date.

Start today. Be consistent. Your opportunity is out there.

Great weekend ahead!