How to Build a Complete LinkedIn Profile
LinkedIn is now one of, if not the most, powerful professional networking platforms available. So, no matter the industry or role, you should have a LinkedIn profile and there are a few reasons why I think this! Recruiters and hiring managers are now able to search candidates on LinkedIn, so being an active user may mean that your next opportunity will come from an InMail.
Why Use LinkedIn?
- Network with Hiring Managers and Recruiters
- Demonstrate your skills, experience, and qualifications through an “online CV”
- LinkedIn is a powerful research tool
- You can ask for endorsements from your colleagues or clients to validate your skills and talents
Creating a polished LinkedIn profile
Recruiters and hiring managers are 40% more likely to find your profile than an incomplete profile. Your profile should include:
Your industry and location
When recruiters and hiring managers search for possible candidates, they will narrow the search using industry and location preferences. It’s important that you include these on your profile to ensure you are appearing in their search results.
Your current and past 2 positions (more if applicable)
Use your headline as more than just a job title – use this field to tell your readers how you see your role, why you do what you do, and what makes you tick. For example:
Client Relationship Manager > Building successful relationships > Creating solutions with exceptional customer service
Your education
LinkedIn allows you to list your education at the top of your profile – this is a great way to show where you are from and what you studied.
At least four skills
Recruiters and hiring managers will search for candidates based on the skills they have on LinkedIn, so you should always update your profile with some of your key skills. This is one way that you could hear about your next job opportunity.
A professional profile picture & background (cover image)
Your profile picture is the first thing that people will notice on your profile and leaves a lasting first impression. It is considered best practice to make sure your face takes up about 60% of the frame, wear what you would wear to work, and smile with your eyes! The background image is up to you – it could represent your industry or the company you are currently working for.
At least 50 connections
You should build connections with people who you are interested in and would like to hear about. Connecting with someone is now a useful tool to use when following up after meetings or conversations and allows you to easily contact them
Customise your URL
This is an effective way to personalise your LinkedIn profile. By default, your URL will include random numbers and letters. You should customise this to make it easier for a recruiter or hiring manager to input into their search bar when looking for you.
Create a catchy personal summary
Create a hook to entice your reader into finding out more information about you! You have 2,000 characters to tell the story of your career. This section should be in the first person (I’s, me’s, and my’s) and be read like a story. For example, “Excellent customer service relies on being completely transparent with your customers and placing them first – this has been my life-long mission.”