LinkedIn is the number one spot for recruiters, employers and job seekers looking to grow their career and expand their network. So it goes without saying you need to up your LinkedIn game if you want to be seen. A strong LinkedIn profile can work more in your favour than your resume.
Take time with setting up your profile
Your profile is a reflection of you, so you want to make it as accurate and complete as possible.
Have a professional looking photograph
This could be the first interaction a company has with you and a first impression – make it count!
Check all of your settings
Familiarise yourself with all of the settings on your account. Do you want to be visible to everyone? Do you want updates to be shared with your network?
Adjust if you are ‘open to work’.
By sharing that you are open to work, your network will know that you are looking. This could open up opportunities for you!
Align your resume to your LinkedIn
You need to make sure you have the same, consisten messaging across your linkedin and your resume. Check dates and role titles are the same so there is no confusion.
Ask for recommendations and give recommendations
This is a fantastic opportunity to build your credibility on linkedin. Think broadly and ask for people to recommend you!
Schedule in half an hour a week for LinkedIn
As a minimum, you want to schedule in this time to ‘like’, ‘comment’ and share posts. This will keep you front of mind to your network.
Follow companies you have worked for and are interested in
Following companies can give you invaluable information. Perhaps on new projects the company is involved in, or even if they are hiring.
Connect with people across all of your networks (refer to your network map here)
Your network is broad and diverse, it can include people you have worked with, school parents and people you see outside of work in activities you are involved with.
Be professional at all times
LinkedIn is a professional networking site and contributes to your reputation. At all times act professionally.
Explore the ‘groups’ function on LinkedIn
You can expand your network by joining groups. This could be in areas of interest to you, or industry bodies. A great way to stay on top of emerging trends and meet new people!
Connect with recruiters who work in the industry and/or on roles of interest.
This is a great way to keep on recruiters radars and also keep up to date with roles they may have on.