LinkedIn can be a powerful tool for you if you are job seeking – either actively or passively (who doesn’t want to get headhunted?!).
LinkedIn gives you access to a vast network of recruiters and hiring managers who are actively looking for qualified candidates.
So, here are some tips for optimisation of your LinkedIn profile so that you get found and stand out to recruiters and hiring managers.
Biggest LinkedIn Optimisation Tip - Use Keywords:
Recruiters and hiring managers search for candidates using keywords related to the job and industry. So use relevant keywords in these sections of your profile to increase your chances of appearing in search results:
Headline - overwrite the headline (which defaults to your current job title) to add in lots of keywords.
About section - this is like your professional profile from your resume. Lots of room for lots of keywords!
Experience - in particular the job titles (if your job titles don't accurately describe the job you did, you could put an equivalent job title (in brackets)).
Skills sections - add up to 50 relevant skills and reorder them so your top 3 appear at the top of the list.
Use a professional looking profile photo:
Your profile photo is the first thing recruiters and hiring managers will see when they come across your profile. Make sure to use a professional headshot that reflects your industry and level of professionalism. Don’t want to get a professional headshot? Make yourself look nice, put on work appropriate clothing, and have a photo shoot with a friend.
Craft a compelling headline:
Your headline is the second most important element on your LinkedIn profile after your photo. Use it to add keywords related to your job and showcase your value proposition in a few words. For example, mine says: Resume Template | Job Interview Coach | Resume Writer | LinkedIn Profiles | Corporate Training | Helping professional women move to the next level in their career
Write a profile (About section) that tells your story:
This should say who you are (job wise) and highlight your unique skills and accomplishments. Use it to showcase your personality and differentiate yourself from other candidates. This is similar to your resume’s professional profile. Add in lots of relevant keywords.
Customise your URL:
Customise your LinkedIn URL (weblink) to reflect your name. This makes it easier for recruiters and hiring managers to find and connect with you, and it looks more professional too!
Update your Experience:
Make sure your experience section lists all your roles with correct dates and links to the correct company. You can list detail under each role if you wish, but this is not compulsory. If you do, use bullet points (copy and paste from a Word document).
Showcase your education and training:
Your education and certifications provide credibility, but there is no need to list your high school details, unless you are a recent graduate.
Use all these LinkedIn optimisation tips: It's worth the effort!
Optimising your LinkedIn profile can increase your visibility and help you stand out to recruiters and hiring managers.
Need help with this? Book in a LinkedIn Strategy Session here.