For people who are already working or looking for employment in the modern digital age, the tools and techniques used to get ahead and be successful would have seemed like something out of a sci-fi movie even just a few decades ago. With the importance of a professional, online presence being such an integral part of getting noticed, the next era of job pursuit and recruitment is found in places such as LinkedIn.
For professionals looking to get out and do some networking and resume sharing, optimizing your LinkedIn profile is the first step to improving your prospects and building a network of like-minded peers and potential business contacts. To help with this task, we consulted with our employment experts and they gave us these 6 criteria for creating a solid LinkedIn profile:
1. A Professional and Appropriate Picture
The profile picture is the first impression you make on any social media platform. And while your cat costume from last Halloween or a blurry-eyed pic from a friend’s wedding reception might be OK for other sites, LinkedIn is for professional networking. Your profile image should look as though you are heading for a job interview (or conducting one).
2. Craft an Attention-Grabbing Headline and Summary
The headline in any piece of material or information is basically a mini-pitch, designed to catch the reader’s attention and make them want to read further. When optimizing your LinkedIn profile, use this space to display your expertise, key skills, career aspirations, and any niche talents you may have.
3. Thoroughly Detailed Work History
Failure to provide a complete employment record raises red flags right off the bat. When filling in this section of your profile list company names, job titles, and employment dates. Use bullets to highlight your achievements, responsibilities, and notable projects. Also, consider adding links to various sites or articles that showcase your work.
4. List Endorsements and Skills
Although you want to list key skills in your summary, you don’t want to make it overly wordy by including everything you do well. Save that for the part of your profile with more space. By endorsing and/or recommending others for their talents, you enhance your credibility and it can also lead to reciprocation from other professionals.
5. Create Engaging Content
Be active on LinkedIn, not passive. Like posts, comment on them, and share them, particularly those related to your interests or industry. This demonstrates your passion, knowledge, and engagement with your professional community.
6. Build a Solid Network
Connect (or reconnect) with former classmates, colleagues, mentors, and industry professionals to grow your network. Participating in groups and communities is also a great way to make new contacts.
Bonus Tip for Optimizing Your LinkedIn Profile: Be Yourself!
A professional and eye-catching profile is essential for maximizing your value, as well as for creating various opportunities in business while also building a reputable and strong personal brand.
However, it doesn’t have to be so buttoned up that none of your personality shines through. Don’t be afraid to put a personal touch on it with quotes, images, or other things that highlight the individuality and uniqueness that you bring to the table.
