Help recruiters and hiring managers not only find you
But help them understand the value you bring
3 quick ways to optimize your LinkedIn profile
1. Maximize your headline.
Start with the title of your next position.
Then, include top keywords for your next job that match your skill set.
This helps recruiters and hiring managers find you when they search by position and relevant keywords.
You have 130 characters for your headline.
Add a bit more about yourself at the end that makes you stand out from other job seekers.
2. Share your story in the About section.
The first 2-3 sentences in your About section tells the recruiter or hiring mangaer who you are, a bit about your background, and the difference your work has made in the past. Share your journey into your new field.
Sharing more of your story personalizes it and helps a recruiter or hiring manager feel like they know you more.
Plus, your story is uniquely you. This is just another way to set yourself apart from other job seekers.
One of the most impactful ways to attract the attention of a recruiter or hiring manager is to include the impact your work has made in your previous positions. Recruiters and hiring managers understand outcomes. Sharing this helps them understand the value you bring to the table.
And, include a bulleted list of your key skills. (Helps keyword research by recruiters and hiring managers.)
Some of these skills may be listed in your heading (#1 above) as well. That’s ok. Focus on your hard/technical skills. Don’t include soft skills. Your soft skills should be apparent by how you share your previous work in the Experience section. (See resume article about showing your soft skills.)
3. Add visuals of your work in the Featured section.
Use the featured section in your profile. It’s a great way to show your work.
Add links to your projects. This provides visuals of your work.
When adding your project, only include a heading, not a description so that it’s just one click to see your project. Busy recruiters and hiring managers will thank you.
4. Share your previous experience from the perspective of your new field
Share the great things you’ve done that align with the top skills needed in your new field. And, omit anything else.
Recruiters and hiring managers don’t have a lot of time. As they quickly glance at your resume, you want everything to align with what they are asking for. Don’t distract them with experience that is irrelevant. Actually they won’t be distracted, they will just put your resume in the ‘no call’ pile.
Don’t bury the relevant information in the midst of irrelevant information. The recruiter or hiring manager doesn’t have time to decipher which is which. Make all of it relevant by including only your experience that aligns with your next position (ie. it’s in the job posting),.
When you share your experience from your new field’s perspective, you will also find you use terminology common in your new field. This helps recruiters and hiring managers understand how your experience aligns with the position they want to fill.
5. Recommendations
Get recommendations from previous managers, co-workers, and clients. Having recommendations in your LinkedIn profile gives you more credibility.
The job market is tough.
Maximize your LinkedIn profile to share the value you bring and what sets you apart from other job seekers.