There was a time, not so long ago, when job seekers would approach potential recruiters with a two or three-page printed resume. This document would then be faxed or dropped off at the recruiter’s office. But as we’ve progressed in the digital world, everything is now done online.
Now, many online applications such as LinkedIn are fast becoming a firm favourite for HR professionals to review a jobseeker’s work history. Many resume writing services recommend that potential job seekers create a professional LinkedIn profile.
Why Do You Need a LinkedIn Profile?
LinkedIn has been operating since 2003, firmly sticking to its vision of creating employment opportunities for its users. In recent years, LinkedIn has become one of the top platforms for working professionals to get access to bigger and better job prospects. A recent study has shown that at least 10 million Australians are using a LinkedIn account for employment searches.
If you’ve never had a LinkedIn profile, you might be wondering if it’s really necessary. Here’s why you need one!
- Create a personal brand: If you’re a job seeker, then you know that marketing yourself is crucial to landing your dream job. Personal branding is a way of professionally highlighting your working skills, attributes and experience in a way that makes you stand out from your peers.
- Build new networking opportunities: Networking has become more relevant than ever before. In many instances, who you know is becoming as important as what you know. Aligning yourself with other like-minded industry professionals is a sure way to get exposure to quality job opportunities.
- Have access to better job opportunities: Essentially, apps like LinkedIn have replaced sitting at the kitchen table and highlighting potential jobs in the back of the newspaper. Many recruiters and HR consultants are already making use of LinkedIn to advertise positions and recruit potential employees. With a top-notch profile, they have access to your credentials and can immediately see if you are a possible fit for their company.
Top Pointers to Improve Your LinkedIn Profile
The reality is that many people only create or update their resumes when they need to. While that may work for some people, having an updated resume keeps you ready to apply for a unexpected opportunity at the drop of a hat.
If you’re looking to update your LinkedIn profile, there are usually two ways to go about it. Enlist in a LinkedIn profile writing service or do it yourself. If you’re feeling brave, our experts have compiled a few steps to help you improve yours.
1. Add a Professional Profile Picture
First impressions are an integral part of personal branding. Having the right profile picture will tell recruiters that you’re both serious and professional. A few key tips to consider here:
- Your picture should be recent
- Choose a close-up – long-distance shots don’t stand out
- Make sure you’re wearing an outfit that you’d wear to work
- A smile in the photo makes you look approachable
2. Avoid Overly Cliched Adjectives
When listing your personal attributes, it can be tempting to use the most descriptive words possible. After all, who doesn’t want to be seen as an “expert” or “certified” person in their field? While it’s necessary to be specific about your achievements, avoid overdoing the descriptive words. Rather focus on showing the reader what your practical qualities are.
A professional profile can show that you’re serious about marketing yourself correctly. The words you choose to describe yourself must highlight what’s relevant to the employer.
3. Highlight Relevant Skills
List skills that are relevant to the type of job opportunity you’re hoping to attract. This is especially important when you’re looking to change careers. You won’t look qualified in your new field if all your credentials are listed for the previous position.
4. Use the Services Feature
LinkedIn has a Services feature that highlights the services on offer from consultants and freelancers. Merely stating that you’re a consultant or freelancer won’t necessarily attract the type of job you’re looking for. Being specific about what you can do will give recruiters an idea of what you have to offer before they waste your time and theirs.
5. Build a Network
One of the best ways to expose your personal brand is to create a network of people that share your interests and work in the industry you want to work in. Unlike Facebook and Instagram, this isn’t a race to befriend the most strangers. Here you’re looking to align yourself with professionals that could expose you to your next potential job.
Following relevant influencers in your industry and sharing professional content from their pages will also go a long way toward exposing your profile to the right people. Share content that adds value and highlights your skills and work ethic.
Final Thought
If you’re searching for your dream job, it’s time to build your personal brand. Start by updating your resume and your LinkedIn profile. Having a professional employment profile will make finding job opportunities so much easier! Who knows who will see your information next!
