We actually use LinkedIn and other sources to evaluate a student's background if we send out a cold invitation. You are right that we have no way of knowing your academic performance.
I'd recommend saying so in your emails. I think your service does have value but I was turned off by the cold email. Our .edu emails get tons of messages from companies saying they are impressed by our skills when in reality they sent the email to the entire listserv. If you really are personally evaluating candidates, say so. Honestly, that would be a big plus in my eyes and I'm sure many others. Little things like that make all the difference.
apcragg|8 years ago