The process of developing my LinkedIn profile was a bit stressful as well as very exciting. Completing the research assignment on the top ten best practices for developing a LinkedIn profile was very informative. I have discovered that I am not completely comfortable with having a profile on social media including a professional social media profile. I do recognize that LinkedIn is a useful marketing tool in other industries but I am not convinced of the benefits for dental hygiene. Additionally, I feel somewhat vulnerable with having my profile on the internet. However, as a Registered Dental Hygienist, I recognize the fact that I am required to practice with a certain degree of transparency including displaying my full legal name in my practice. As a result of completing the LinkedIn assignments, I have gained a deeper appreciation of social networking platforms and have discovered the importance of accuracy of the written word.
Progress Report
As I organized the tasks for writing my report proposal, I was able to get a realistic sense of the work load ahead of me. I will need to spend a considerable amount time and effort completing this worthwhile project. I have chosen an issue that is a current concern in my practice that needs to be addressed. If I am able to compile a well written report, it has the potential to benefit the practice, the dental hygienists and most importantly, the patients.
Peer Review
I had the opportunity to perform 2 LinkedIn peer reviews since we had a late addition to our writing team and 1 Research Proposal peer review. Reading the assignments of other classmates permits me to see various writing styles and this exposure is helping me to develop my own personal writing style. As a result of performing these peer reviews, I have become more critical of my own writing.
I have also received valuable feedback to assist me with my LinkedIn profile and to support my research proposal. Both of the peer reviews that I received were written with a respectful tone and offered valuable constructive criticism. I am really grateful for the feedback that I received since this will support me in becoming a more accomplished technical writer.