LINKEDIN ADVICE

4 Jul

Overview

Take time: To create a strong profile that compliments your CV take your time. LinkedIn is a business focussed networking site showcasing you. 97% of recruiters use it and it is an excellent tool.
Custom URL: LinkedIn.com/yourname.
Photograph: Attach a friendly, professional and good quality photograph. Head and shoulders with a plain background. No holiday snaps here please.
Headline: Write an eye catching headline underlining what your speciality is. The more specific the better and please include your key words throughout.
Content: Look at job descriptions of roles you like and again, look at the key words. Use these throughout your profile on LinkedIn and in your CVs and covering letters.
Media: Attach pictures, videos, slideshows.
Add web-sites you have created, projects you have worked on, articles written. Use the multimedia interface that LinkedIn offers.

Summary: Should be 3-5 short paragraphs long with bullet points in the middle. Include your passions, skills, unique qualifications and a list of the industries you have worked with in the past.
- Include numbers to highlight success stories and underline case studies.
- Use key stats. They are more powerful than adjectives.
- Avoid buzzwords.
- Use the first person.
- Market yourself as a high performer in the summary and experience sections (accomplishments, times you have been promoted or hand-picked for projects).
- Use the current title box, if you are on a career break, use the words ‘seeking for xxxx….’.
Experiences: Add any volunteer experiences or languages to "additional" profile features.
Endorsements: Approach people and suggest different skill sets you would like them to endorse. You always hide recommendations that are badly written or not relevant. Keep them current.
Update articles: but do not overload the platform.
Include a blog.
Join relevant groups. Have at least 50 personal connections, recruiters like a network.
Privacy: If you are looking to change careers, make sure your current employer cannot tell you are on the hunt, there is a privacy setting on each account.

Katharine Landale