How to update & improve your LinkedIn page
LinkedIn is one of the first places potential employers go to scope you out. Your Linkedin page should be an extension of your CV, so it’s important to spend some time updating your CV and ensuring your LinkedIn profile is up to date and accurate. You never know when your dream job is just around the corner!
We are actively using Linkedin on a daily basis, so we’ve outlined our advice around what a great profile looks like:
1. Have the right profile Picture
When you’re selecting a photo it is important to consider that LinkedIn is an online business network and professional platform, ensure that you pick a photo that represents your personal branding and professionalism, this is the first impression some employers or recruitment consultants will have of you. It’s important to remember that Linkedin is a different platform to Instagram and Facebook.
When selecting an image be sure to consider the following:
● Pick an image with a plain background
● Take a headshot and ensure your face fits in the frame
● Don’t use any filters on the image.
● No selfies
● Don’t crop a group photo
● Ensure you’re not using pictures that are of you partying or drinking
● Make sure the image is not blurry.
2. Make your headline stand out
Your headline should be your current position or job title and also include the company you work for.
If you’re looking for a new job or having a career break, consider updating your status to one of the following:
“Seeking new opportunities”
“Relocating to a new city, looking for new opportunities”
“Currently on maternity leave”
Also check that your location and industry are all up to date, as these are the filters companies and recruiters will be searching.
3. Write a compelling summary
Use this area to expand on your headline, this area is your opportunity to sell yourself to employers or consultants that will be reviewing your page.
We recommend focusing on the following details:
● Career summary
● Current role and responsibilities
● Management experience if relevant
● Key achievements you’ve had in your career
● If you have been made redundant after a short period, perhaps explain that tenure and reason for leaving
4. Keep your work experience up to date
It is important to check that your work experience matches your cv. The number of Linkedin pages that we see that have conflicting dates or job titles to cv’s is concerning and confusing. Be sure to include job titles as per your contracts, include correct dates that you started/left a company. If you had a promotion while working for that company be sure to update the job title and dates to reflect your promotion.
● Include only significant work experience that relates to your chosen career path.
● Add the companies that you worked for and ensure you link in their website.
● Include a few bullet points under each position to highlight your key responsibilities and any key achievements.
● Also, this is a good place to include any keywords so that your profile will pop up and be visible in search criteria to build your network.
5. Build a network of connections.
Connect with relevant people you have crossed paths with throughout your career, the bigger your network the better! Linkedin allows you to keep in contact with people in your industry as well as follow successful people that inspire you. By following key leaders, mentors and companies your newsfeed will fill up quickly.
Always connect with your team members and ask them to endorse your skill sets. Once you have completed the above checklist, increase your activity and post regular updates. Things you could consider to share; marketing collateral, relevant content for your industry, HR and recruitment tips, business articles etc.
Good luck!
Image via WSJ