LinkedIn has never been more important when it comes to job search. If you follow our steps on how to optimize your LinkedIn profile, you will increase your chances of making a good impression when searching for a job. Your LinkedIn profile is your professional branding profile and the more you optimize it, the better chances you have to get your dream job.
1. Upload a Professional Photo
First thing to do is to upload a professional photo. The photo must have been taken recently, be professional and have a neutral background. Your background or cover image should associate with your professionalism. This could be a picture that shows that you are hardworking, positive, or motivated. It could also be a picture that reflects the industry you are working in perhaps shipping, hospitality, or whatever industry you are working in.
2. Create a Great Headline
Your LinkedIn headline can help boost your profile and create more brand awareness. Even though this short description is mostly used for job titles, you can take it a step further and add even more details about your current role and your personality. You can mention that you are result-driven, creative, passionate or whatever you feels describes you professionally.
3. Tell your story
If you want to know how to optimize your LinkedIn profile, the about section is a good way to start. Some people might use this section to list their recent job titles or achievements within their professional career. Others might use it to tell a small story about themselves or to mention their most valuable skills. The about section is a way for you to brand yourself in a few sentences, so make sure to focus on what you believe is your most important asset.
4. Work Experience and Education
Now comes the most important part. You must add relevant work experience and educational experience. Create a short description of your role and write the most relevant selling points about what you experience and what you achieved during the specific job or education. Make sure that your LinkedIn profile is consistent with your experience in your CV.
5. Competencies
If you want to get noticed on LinkedIn, you must add all your competencies and skills. Most of the content on your LinkedIn profile works as keywords, as well as the competencies. Which is why it is important to add the most relevant competencies on your profile. This is a great way for you to brand your competencies and skills, as well as a great way to get noticed by recruiters or other relevant people.
6. Grow your Network
Now your LinkedIn looks great, so now it is time to make yourself visible. It is great to have a big network, however if your network gets too big it can take away focus from the primary focus of your profile. Make sure to connect with like-minded and skilled individuals to expand your industry and potentially advance your career. If you are looking for a job, it is a good idea for you to connect with relevant companies or recruitments agencies.
