LinkedIn is undeniably one of the best tools to use when searching for a new job. Loaded with Recruiters and Employers looking for the best talent, it’s vital that you have a LinkedIn Profile that stands out. Here are our 8 Top Tips to having a LinkedIn Profile that will get you noticed.
1. Have a suitable photo
If you are looking for a new role, and want to get noticed, we strongly advise that you have a profile picture that suits your target audience. That doesn’t necessarily mean a professional headshot, but should be a picture of you (just you!) that depicts you in a professional manner.
2. Have a strong headline
This should include your job title, and any information that will help a Recruiter or Employer understand what you do instantly. We see a lot of vague headlines which don't tell us anything about what you do, or what you are looking for. If you are a JavaScript Developer looking for roles in Cambridge, tell everybody you're a JavaScript Developer in Cambridge!
3. Update your contact information
Making sure your contact information is correct is essential! Don’t miss out on your dream job because you had an old email address or phone number on your profile!
4. Have a great About section
This is your opportunity to showcase exactly what your key skills and achievements are. Focus this section on getting the right keywords into your profile, so if people are searching for people like you, they will find….you!
5. Complete your career history
Treat this area of your profile exactly like your CV. Fill in the key information, make sure it’s correct, but also build out the section with your key responsibilities and achievements. A paragraph about the key element of your job and a few bullet points with your key duties is a great place to start.
6. Add your academic background
If you have a strong academic background – put it in your profile! If you’ve studied something relevant to the type of job, you are looking for them make sure this is crystal clear in your profile.
7. Have recommendations
Having people from within your industry recommending you is a really good way of getting noticed. It’s also a really good confidence boost to get recommendations before you commence your job search! If you don't have any, then ask people you know to provide you a reference (it's always worth returning the favour too). Whilst it can feel awkward to ask, it'll be worth it.
8. Tell people you’re open to work
LinkedIn makes it easy for you to notify potential employers and recruiters that you are open to work. If you don’t have a job, then you can use the ‘Open to Work’ frame on your profile picture. If you are working, and don’t want to broadcast to your current employer that you are looking, then you can use the ‘Open to Opportunities’ feature in LinkedIn. This let’s interested people know you are looking, but don’t worry, your current company won’t be able to see this!