LinkedIn is one of the most effective networking tools for job searches and connecting with potential employers. Making sure your LinkedIn profile updated and optimised is essential to distinguish yourself from other users, who are also trying to stand out.
Even if you are not actively seeking a new position, hiring managers and recruiters will still reach out to you, if they think you are suitable for the role. Sooner or later you will want a career advancement, so it is advisable to take the time to keep your LinkedIn profile up to date to improve your chances of being discovered.
With a few minor improvements, you can make a huge impact. Here are our recommended tips:
1. Create a headline that is professional and concise
The headline below your name is the main description that shows what you do and what you can offer. You have 120 characters to make it very precise, so be sure it is descriptive and rich in keywords. Make every word count!
2. Include a professional profile photo
Your profile photo is one of the most important advantages when it comes to leaving a positive first impression. Make sure that you are the only person in the photo with a solid background, wearing professional clothes that represent you. Also, only use high quality (HD) photos.
3. Focus on your summary
When a recruiter or hiring manager lands on your LinkedIn profile, you want to ensure that they quickly grasp your skills and experience to determine if you match the role they are recruiting for. This is your opportunity to pitch yourself in 30 seconds, so make sure that you include past, present, and future overviews.
4. Customise your URL
Your default LinkedIn URL profile is a random selection of numbers and letters. Ideally, you want to own a personalised URL that includes your name to gain visibility, even on google. The fact is, personalising your LinkedIn URL is a simple way to ensure that when people are searching for you, they find you.
Just follow these simple steps: https://www.linkedin.com/help/linkedin/answer/87?lang=en
5. Add Keywords to Your Experience Section
Instead of just listing your job title in your Experience section, add keywords and relevant descriptions next to your title. If your actual title is Chief Financial Officer, tweak your headline to — Experienced Chief Financial Officer at a globally recognised E-commerce company.
6. Complete all sections of your LinkedIn profile
Make it a habit to update your current position, which includes your title, company name, and the time frame you have worked there. It is also important to complete the work history and experience section for each role in your LinkedIn profile. Don’t forget to add more keywords in your industry, so that hiring managers and recruiters can find you easily.
7. Request recommendations and endorsements from connections
Ideally, try to get as many recommendations and endorsements from colleagues, managers, and clients as possible, because this adds credibility to your profile. No one visits a hotel without checking its reviews, so why would someone hire you without a few reviews?
8. Be active and proactive
One of the best ways to get active on LinkedIn is to join relevant groups or networks that are related to your industry or niche. Be proactive by creating and sharing content relevant to your industry, role, or network. Engaging within the LinkedIn network will also help boost your presence to get your profile noticed by hiring managers and recruiters.
Finally, make sure your email, phone number, and other social media platforms are accurate and listed on your profile. You want to make sure that anyone can contact you about great opportunities. Also, it is not necessarily a bad thing if you’re not working; this will allow contract recruiters to consider you.