Get Noticed by Employers on LinkedIn

LinkedIn is a powerful tool. It allows you to connect with colleagues, catch up on industry trends, and look for new opportunities. And it allows hiring managers to find you and learn more about you. Make sure that your profile is strong and will work in your favor by following these basic LinkedIn optimization tips!

Include a professional picture.

This is probably the most important part of your LinkedIn page. It legitimizes your profile and personalizes your page. No selfies and no group shots. Choose a professional individual image.

Create a complete profile.

Think of LinkedIn as your online resume; treat it with the same level of care as your normal resume. Write a summary that includes a brief introduction and, if you're looking for a job, make mention of what you are looking to do. Use your resume as a guide to complete your work experience include all jobs with a list of bullet point highlights. Don't forget to include personal interests, volunteer work, certifications, professional associations, published work, etc. As you complete your profile, LinkedIn will "grade" the strencht and completeness of your profile - aim for "all-star" status!

Join groups.

LinkedIn groups are virtual meeting rooms formed around industries, professions, interests, etc. They allow you to keep up with news and trends, connect with people, and get access to new opportunities that may not be publicized elsewhere. Be active in the group by answering questions, sharing articles, and connecting with other group members on LinkedIn. LinkedIn allows every member to join up to 50 groups.

Get written recommendations.

Ask managers and colleagues (current and past) to post a recommendation on your page. Write recommendations for others as well.

Add skills.

Within the Skills & Endorsements section, add a list of your marketable skills. Your network will then endorse these skills. You can also optimize other areas of your profile with keywords that you want to be associated. The more endorsements and keywords you have, the better chance you have of showing up in a search for that skill.

Build your network.

Once your profile is complete, add people to your network. Add friends, co-workers, and other people you've done business with in the past. If you try to connect with someone who may not know you well, include a reference to how you know each other in the personal note section of the invite.

If you have any questions about updating your LinkedIn page, reach out to us. And don't forget to connect with uson LinkedIn while your're updating your profile!