According to Omnicore, there are 310 million active LinkedIn users and 15M+ open jobs on LinkedIn. So if you are actively looking for new opportunities, it is fair to say that you need to make some changes to your LinkedIn profile so it stands out to recruiters.
So how can you make your profile stand out?
1. Upload a profile picture and cover image
Believe it or not, users with a profile picture receive 21 times more profile views and 9 times more connection requests.
Here you’ll find some tips on how to select the right picture.
To make your LinkedIn profile look complete and memorable, don’t forget to use a cover image. It’s your way of showing off your personality and personal brand.
A small detail that might give you more visibility towards recruiters is to use the #OpenToWork frame. You can even specify the location or roles that you are interested in.
2. Personalise your headline
You can use the headline to state your job title, but you could be more creative!
Why do you do what you do?
What’s your value proposition?
Another way of using the headline is to expand on your skillset, and you can even mention you are seeking new opportunities.
3. Make yourself accessible
Share your contact details under the ‘Contact Information’ section. Include your phone number or email address at the very least.
4. Customise your URL
This is something very easy to do, and it will add value to your profile, especially when you share it on your CV.
To do so, you’ll find a link to ‘Edit your public URL’ on the right hand side of your profile.
5. Use the ‘About’ section to write a short bio
You can use this section to give a brief overview of yourself and your goals. Mention your achievements and skills, use keywords for the type of role you’re searching for. This is important for two reasons:
- It’ll help recruiters assess your suitability for the role
- It will make your profile more visible when recruiters search for keywords in the search bar
You’ll have up to 2,000 characters to add personality, tell your career journey, and engage recruiters.
6. Keep your experience section up to date
Keep it aligned with your CV and the ‘About’ section. Include those experiences that are relevant to the position, even if they were short!
On the other hand, a long ‘Experience’ section can be a bit overwhelming. So if you have a lengthy professional experience, stick to what’s relevant.
You should also add a description of each position and, if possible, add a link or document that demonstrates your accomplishments – interviews, articles…
7. List your relevant skills
Identify which skills describe you best, which will support your ‘Headline’ and ‘About’ sections. It is also important to ask other users to endorse your skills, as it’ll increase your credibility.
Another option is to take a skills assessment, an online test that proves your level of certain hard skills.
8. Expand your network
… But be selective with your connection requests. They need to be aligned with the industry/position that you are working towards.
And always personalize your connection requests.
9. Ask for recommendations
Reach out to people you’ve worked with in the past. Recommendations are incredibly important, as it shows your colleagues’ recognition of your work and will, once again, support your ‘About’ and ‘Skills’ sections.
It is, in other words, a social proof of your skills.
10. Stay active
Be part of discussions, join groups, share content.
This will not only make your LinkedIn profile more visible towards recruiters (especially when you’re already connected to them), but it will also give them a better understanding of your profile.
Do you need more interviewing tips? Check out how to prepare for a video interview.
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