If you haven't created a LinkedIn profile, we suggest you do, as part of your job-seeking portfolio! Job-seekers who utilize LinkedIn during their search find the platform helpful. They are able make connections and network through the platform, which can lead to landing a job. Revision Resume offers the following 9 tips to make LinkedIn Work for your job search:
A complete profile makes a difference. A complete profile gets more views, which increases your chances of being found on LinkedIn. Take the time to fill out every section and include a professional-looking photo of yourself as well.
Create a unique URL. This is an easy step that will help you stand out from other job seekers. It's also a much more polished way to present your LinkedIn site on your resume's contact information. Visit Revision Resume's blog with step-by-step instructions to learn how.
Request connections with as many people as possible. Consider friends, family, co-workers and fellow students. Don't limit yourself to people within your career field. Think of anyone and everyone you know! When a connection likes or comments on your LinkedIn post, their connections see it. This is what makes LinkedIn such a powerful networking tool. It exposes your profile to others who may be able to offer you an opportunity in your field.
Don't send generic connection requests. Personalizing your connection requests increases the chances of them being accepted. Instead of just clicking "send," take a few minutes to write a couple of sentences. Look for common ground to point out. But, keep in mind, it is considered unprofessional to ask for advice or information within a connection request. Wait to build your relationship further before posing those questions.
Comments and posts should be professional. LinkedIn is not Facebook or other social media. It is intended to be a professional site. Think before you response to someone else's post or comment. Ask yourself: am I adding professional value with what I am saying?
Do include keywords. Looking for a specific type of job? Include keywords from job postings within your About/Summary section. Align your headline with the title of the job. Include wording that might be used by a recruiter searching LinkedIn for those type of candidates.
List results...not responsibilities. Listing tasks is not impressive. No one wants to read your duties or responsibilities. Instead, focus on showcasing your actions and accomplishments. Use your LinkedIn profile to highlight your achievements, and demonstrate what value you could contribute to any organization that hires you.
Avoid conflicting information compared to your resume. Your resume and LinkedIn profile don't have to be identical. However, make sure the information you include in your LinkedIn profile doesn't conflict with what you have listed on your resume, as this may raise a red flag. Take the time to verify that your resume and LinkedIn profiles are in alignment.
Don't forget to update! Many people set up their LinkedIn and then forget about it. Just like your resume needs to be updated with promotions and successes, LinkedIn does as well. In addition, your profile shouldn't just be a historical view of your career, but should align with your future goals and aspirations. As they change, your profile should be updated as well.
If you need assistance with your LinkedIn profile, Revision Resume is happy to help! Contact us to learn more!
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