Are Lynda Learning Paths and Certifications Worth Sharing on LinkedIn?
As an expert in SEO and a professional with years of experience in the tech industry, I often find myself asking whether certain skills and achievements should be shared on LinkedIn. In particular, I've been considering the question of whether to share Lynda's learning paths and certifications on this professional networking site. After thorough reflection, I believe there are several compelling reasons to do so, especially if it aligns with your career path.
Understanding the Value of Lynda Learning Paths
Lynda is a renowned online learning platform offering a vast array of courses across numerous fields, including programming, design, business, and creative skills. These learning paths provide a structured approach to acquiring knowledge and can significantly enhance your skill set. However, many professionals hesitate to share these achievements due to concerns about how they might be perceived. Some recruiters or hiring managers may have a lower opinion of online courses, particularly if they are not from prestigious organizations like AWS or Docker.
When to Share Lynda Learning Paths on LinkedIn
While it's true that the perception of online learning can vary, there are specific scenarios where sharing your Lynda learning paths can be highly beneficial. Here are a few considerations:
Matching Career Goals
First, ask yourself if the learning path or certification aligns with your career objectives. If the skills you've acquired can directly contribute to your professional growth or add value to your current role, then sharing it on LinkedIn makes sense. For example, if you're in a marketing position and you completed a Lynda course on digital marketing, this would be a valuable asset to highlight.
Telling Your Career Story
Another critical factor is whether the learning path fits into the narrative you want to present to your professional network. LinkedIn is your professional brand, and showcasing relevant skills can help you tell a compelling story about your journey and expertise. If you can frame the Lynda learning path in a way that demonstrates your commitment to continuous learning and your dedication to staying updated with new technologies or methodologies, this can be a powerful addition to your profile.
Strategies for Effective Sharing
If you decide that it's worthwhile to share your Lynda learning paths on LinkedIn, here are some strategies to ensure maximum impact:
Highlight Relevant Skills
When promoting your Lynda learning path, focus on the specific skills and knowledge you acquired. For instance, if you completed a course on Python programming, mention that you are now equipped with skills relevant to backend development or data analysis. Providing concrete examples can help potential employers understand the practical value of your accomplishments.
Use Engagement Metrics
Share the number of courses completed or the duration of your commitment. Numbers can provide a tangible measure of your dedication and can be a conversation starter with recruiters or potential colleagues.
Connect Learning to Real-World Applications
Link your learning experience to real-world applications or case studies. If you've applied the skills you learned to a project or problem at work, share this information. This not only demonstrates your practical application of the knowledge but also shows your ability to contribute to the company's success.
Conclusion
While the perception of online learning varies, sharing your Lynda learning paths and certifications on LinkedIn can be a strategic move if it aligns with your career goals and helps you tell your professional story. By carefully considering how these achievements can benefit your professional brand and contribute to your career journey, you can make a compelling case for including them in your LinkedIn profile.