Your profile on LinkedIn is the first thing that employers see about you and the way they find you on the social network. Since your profile is one of the most important elements of that site, you should pay a lot of attention to it. Thus you have to make it look good and provide the information necessary for employers to learn more about you and be impressed.
Here we will discuss what personal details you should include in your LinkedIn profile to make it appealing to employers. Even if you are already employed you still need to update your profile. Who knows what tomorrow may bring? You may get job offers. This can also help if you are looking for new opportunities while you are still working for someone else.
Tips for your LinkedIn Profile
Generally speaking, you have to make sure your profile is detailed and complete. Include as much information as you can, but only the things that really matter. You can’t write about how much you love pets or your camping hobby. It has to be straight to the point and precise. Also, make your profile public, otherwise people will not be able to find you. Last but not least, you have to be honest. Don’t make up stories and don’t talk about experience that you never had. Make sure you include correct details about you and your skills.
1. Update your profile
If you are out of work, don’t forget to include in your LinkedIn profile that you are no longer employed and that you are available for new opportunities. This way potential employers will know you are looking for a job. I know a person who was laid off and after letting people know she was looking for a new position, she managed to get hired within seven days! How much time have you been looking for a job? Few people are that lucky.
2. Add a photo
Make sure the photo is current and not too casual. You should look like the professional that you really are. Make sure you are dressed professionally. This makes a great first impression.
3. Summary
The summary section of your profile should include your skills and experience. Don’t forget to add any other information that will highlight your skills. Make sure you include languages, certifications, the industry you desire to be occupied with, etc.
The Experience section of your profile should have your education, employment (past and current), and industry. You can use the information from your resume or CV to copy-paste it into your LinkedIn profile.
4. List your volunteer work
If you have done any volunteer work, DON’T FORGET to mention it in your profile. Statistics show that employers value candidates who have volunteer experience. Part of the decision of which candidate is better can be determined by their volunteer history.
Volunteer experience can be added from the Volunteer Experience & Causes menu in Profile->Add Sections.
5. Profile Examples
Headline examples (if you are unemployed)
- Looking for a job
- Marketing professional seeking work
- Experienced business analyst in transition
- Recent university graduate looking for an entry programming position
Headlines can be tough as they are meant to attract people to read your entire profile. However, telling what your current position has its difficulties as well.
Current Position examples
- Recent Graduate at… College
- In transition and seeking a job
- Freelancer at self-employed
6. What NOT to include in your profile
There are some overused phrases that you may want to substitute with something more original. These include:
- Responsible
- Strategic
- Motivated
- Experienced
- Team player
- Innovative
Last but not least, if you are currently employed but want to look for new job opportunities without your employer’s knowledge, be sure to turn your activity broadcasts off. Also, change who can view your activities.