What Your LinkedIn Profile Should look like
Nearly every industry uses LinkedIn to find candidates, and over 90% of recruiters rely on the site. (Dept. HRM,2017) So your profile can’t just be a storage unit for career contacts — it needs to be a clear concise portfolio of you, your talents and your experience.
First impressions count
Your LinkedIn profile is typically the first impression that a business contact may have with you, so you want to make sure you put your best foot forward. You can do this by making sure your images and content are strictly professional.
Having a good photo that you use across all networks says something about you. It says that you are professional and care about your public image. When surveyed 75% of employees said they were more willing to engage with someone who had a professional photo on their profile page. (LinkedIn survey, 2016)
Manage your personal professional brand
LinkedIn provides one of the best opportunities to increase your visibility and credibility. You can upload blogs, videos, images, awards, etc. to develop a three-dimensional view that highlights your skills and abilities.
Don’t get left behind
Keep in mind that your LinkedIn profile should always be a work in progress. Update it regularly, making sure your most relevant and up to date projects are mentioned.
Do you have recommendations and endorsements from other professionals?
Having credible endorsements and recommendations is a good sign that you are a well-liked and reliable individual. Get as many recommendations as you can!
Avoid Buzz Words
Yes, that is correct, buzz words no longer work. Recruiters and HR professionals are searching through professional profiles all the time and over used buzz words and phrases become repetitive, boring and disingenuous. Try to make your profile personal to you whilst making sure it is professional and concise throughout.
Network & Get Involved
Join relevant groups and discussions to connect with major players in your industry by using the search tool to find groups by industry. Join groups, post relevant articles and participate in discussions.