If you are looking for a new job, Linkedin is the social media place to be. It's where recruiters search for potential job candidates and it's where hiring managers go for more information on applicants. Linkedin has over 500 millions users now, so how can you make your profile stand out.
1. Have a photo
This might seem controversial if you are concerned about discrimination, however Linkedin's own research has found that profiles with photos get 21 times more views and 36 times more messages than those without! Make sure you use a high resolution image (400 x 400 is best) and that 60% of the picture is your face. Wear professional clothes in your photo and smile to make a good impression.
2. Write a strong headline
Your headline is one of the most visible parts of your profile and it plays a huge part in people finding you. Make sure it includes the major keywords someone would use to find a candidate in your field. You only have 120 characters so be very succinct! Include hard skills and job titles. Use the keywords for the job you want.
An example of a good headline is:
Product Manager | Cloud computing, AWS, Azure, Saas, Mobile
3. Include a rounded summary
The summary is your opportunity to really introduce yourself to the person viewing your profile. It allows you to put your career in context, to highlight your accomplishments, show your personality and share your interests. Hook the reader in the first three sentences. Write it how you speak. Include more key words. Avoid over-used words that have lost meaning like "strategic" and "motivated." Instead prove you are strategic and motivated with examples. Say what you are passionate about. Tell them what is next in your career. End your summary with a call to action.
An example of a good summary is:
I have over 15 years of experience working in data science. Currently, I work at Amazon as a Senior Data Manager, improving products and services for our customers using advanced analytics, big-data and creating and maintaining models.
Previously, I was a Data Scientist at Microsoft, where I analyzed data from some of the biggest enterprise companies in the world to educate the market on long-term internet trends.
My competencies include data science, machine learning, cloud computing, Hadoop, Python, Java and R.
When I’m not on the job, I love walking my cat, working my way through every recipe in the Joy of Baking, and indulging my love for seeing new movies.
If you’d like to learn more about how my services can help your company, please reach out via email (myemail@gmail.com).
A career coach can help you with your Linkedin profile.
You might also be interested in reading: How to use a job board in your job search.
You might also be interested in reading: How to use a job board in your job search.
