How To Create a Standout LinkedIn Profile
Positioning yourself as a professional and building a network are two great attributes to have as a job candidate. Luckily, these both can be achieved through having a fantastic LinkedIn profile.
Ten years ago, finding work was about who you know, relying on a great resume and having a confident handshake. Fast forward to today, LinkedIn is a recruiter/employer’s way to search for candidates to fill vacancies and used to determine whether you would make a good fit for the organisation. With more than 55 million companies listed on the site and 14 million open jobs, it’s no surprise to find out that 87% of recruiters regularly use LinkedIn.
Wait… What is LinkedIn?
LinkedIn is the world’s largest professional network on the internet. You can use LinkedIn to find the right job or internship, connect and strengthen professional relationships, and learn the skills you need to succeed in your career. You can access LinkedIn from a desktop, LinkedIn mobile app, mobile web experience, or the LinkedIn Lite Android mobile app.
What Does a Standout Profile Look Like?
We’re here to help you craft a great LinkedIn profile. Other than the basics of setting up a profile, these are some key tips to enhance your profile.
A Headline That Pops!
Your headline or summary sits below your name on your LinkedIn profile and will be the first thing readers see. The word limit is 120 characters, and it’s your chance to shine. Think of it as a small billboard advertisement for you and what you do.
You can write down your passions, what your vision is, how you want your career to expand. A key tip is to make it specific to your industry, so you appeal to the recruiters in your area of expertise.
Showcase Your Experience and Achievements
A recruiter would look at a large number of LinkedIn profiles to see who the right fit is. By highlighting your experience and achievements, you can quickly show them why you would be an asset to their workplace. This can be highlighted in the summary and experience section.
Make Connections and Ask for Recommendations
The best way to get out there and show what kind of person you are is to build a network of like-minded or interesting people. By building out your connections, you are putting yourself into new circles that can open the door to employment opportunities. A great way to build out your connections is to search for people you work with, and LinkedIn will suggest more based on their system.
While you’re keeping in touch with your connections and developing positive relationships, why not ask them for a recommendation?
LinkedIn endorsements are a simple way for your colleagues and connections to recognize your expertise in a specific field with just one click. It also shows potential employers that you work well with others and that you have skills they may be looking for.
