When I first started thinking seriously about LinkedIn, I honestly saw it the same way many PhDs do: a place full of self-promotion, awkward networking, and people turning ordinary moments into motivational speeches.
But as I began building a career outside academia, I realized LinkedIn could quietly become one of the most powerful career tools available.
In this podcast episode, I reflected on three surprisingly “boring” LinkedIn habits that eventually led to speaking invitations at more than 30 universities, job offers from CEOs, and even a book contract.
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Intentionally connecting with decision-makers.
Back in 2020 and 2021, while transitioning out of academia into science writing, I started following hiring managers, HR professionals, and leaders in biotech, pharmaceutical, and medical device companies. I was not trying to connect with celebrity influencers. I focused on real people actively working in the industry.
That strategy directly led to my first science writing job. A director I had connected with on LinkedIn posted an opening, and because we were already connected, I was able to apply quickly and begin a conversation almost immediately.
But the value went beyond job postings.
Following industry leaders helped me understand how insiders talked about the field—what mattered, what challenges companies faced, and how professionals communicated ideas. That knowledge became incredibly valuable during interviews and networking conversations.
Building and updating my portfolio.
I learned that a portfolio does not need to be complicated. It simply needs to show evidence of your work.
For science communication, that meant saving writing samples and published PDFs. For speaking opportunities, it meant adding videos, photos, and descriptions of previous talks.
The lesson became very clear to me: people are more likely to hire you when they can clearly see examples of what you can already do.
Writing consistently on LinkedIn.
Not performative posting. Not manufactured “thought leadership.” Just thoughtful writing.
Over time, sharing my ideas and perspectives publicly created opportunities I never could have predicted. Hiring managers referenced my posts during interviews. Colleagues discussed my writing internally. Speaking invitations arrived because people connected with the way I articulated ideas.
One thing I have come to believe deeply is that writing is thinking.
Even when people disagree with me, thoughtful writing creates dialogue, visibility, and credibility.
Bonus Boring Habit
Finally, I learned the importance of making my LinkedIn profile searchable. Many PhDs unintentionally hide themselves behind headlines like “PhD Candidate,” while recruiters are searching for specific skills and industry language.
Optimizing my profile with relevant keywords, skills, and clear descriptions of problem-solving experience made it easier for opportunities to find me.
Because in today’s job market, visibility matters.
And sometimes the “boring” habits are the ones that quietly change everything.