LinkedIn is a great way for companies to find new talent, so it’s important to keep your profile up to date and relevant. Much like a resume, your LinkedIn profile serves as a first impression for recruiters and hiring managers who are searching for that next great professional to join their team. Here are a few tips to help you stand out to recruiters and hiring managers if you are actively looking for a new career opportunity.
Update your profile picture
Update your profile with a high quality professional photo. Make sure it’s visible to everyone. Use a photo that looks professional and appropriate for the type of industry you are in and the type of jobs you are seeking.
Update your headline and summary in a short paragraph
Be innovative and interesting. If you recently achieved a new position, completed a new side project or received a special award or recognition, add it to your summary. Focus your summary on where you are in your career. Add any new skills or certifications.
Align your profile to your resume
List your title and job descriptions to match your resume. Make sure your profile includes searchable keywords and includes the latest technologies and skills that you have been working with in your current and recent jobs.
Review your connections
Engage with your connections by reading, liking, commenting on, and sharing their posts. Browse through your contacts to see if there is anyone new or interesting you would like to network with. Your activity level on Linkedin shows how current you are. Having an active Linkedin profile will bring more views to your page. Being active in your groups and with your connections will bring more visibility to your profile.
Get endorsements and recommendations
We all want to know what others think of a product before we purchase it. Finding the right talent is no different. Ask former or current colleagues to endorse you for specific skills and to write a recommendation. Always return the favor as a way to thank them for their recommendation.
Check your settings
One of the best ways to get noticed by hiring managers and recruiters is to select the option “open to new opportunities” under settings. Also change your profile to public and customize which sections you want to be visible.
