How to Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile for Recruiters

Back in the day, LinkedIn was primarily used and seen as an online resume, but over the years LinkedIn has evolved into so much more! Now, it is seen as a way to network, build a personal brand, and find talent. It is also where you can showcase your expertise, close deals, and grow your professional brand. 

The truth is, a generic profile won’t do anything for you on LinkedIn these days! You need to be strategic and think of how you want people to perceive you. Your LinkedIn profile is like a trailer to the big summer blockbuster - want it to be engaging and appealing to lead people to want to know more! That’s where the networking (and job opportunities) really comes in! 

5 tips to optimize your LinkedIn profile

1. Updated Photos! 
   Your profile photo should be recent, primarily featuring your face (long distance shots don’t stand out!), and you should be dressed professionally or in a way that showcases your skills personality (if you’re in a more creative industry). Don’t forget to add a background photo to help your profile stand out. This will grab people’s attention, so be sure it sets the context for your profile and shows more about what matters to you.

2. Make your headline more than a job title.
   Just like a catchy headline can suck you into a news story, this headline should pull people in to learn more about you! Don’t just list your job title - share how you see your role, why you do what you do, and what makes you tick! Pro tip: stear clear of hyperbole “e.g. Event Planning wizard / maven / guru / ninja” The headline is also highly searchable, and folks generally aren’t searching for “wizards.”

3. Facts tell, stories sell.
   You’ve probably heard this adage a few times before, but that’s because it’s true! Rather than just listing your facts (what you’re good at, your accomplishments, skills, or job titles) use this space to tell your story! Bring to life who you are and why your skills matter! Invest time into writing your bio & headline and have trusted friends and mentors review it. It’s worth the extra effort to create this personal connection. 

4. Share the endorsement love.
   Endorsements are a great way to network, highlight people you work (or worked) with, and increase your own credibility. Go through your network and identify connections who you feel genuinely deserve an endorsement. Often, that’s the trigger for people to return the favor and if not, feel free to send a polite message requesting an endorsement from people you really value. 

5. Showcase your passion for learning.
   Employers value people who continue to level up their skills. Whether this is a LinkedIn Learning Course or some other certificate or degree, add those to your profile! 

BONUS Tip: Publish content!

By commenting and engaging with others, you establish your expertise and thought-leadership credentials on LinkedIn. Use that to your advantage to start publishing longer form content like articles to establish yourself further and help start new conversations! Keep an eye out for certain topics or themes in your network and write about those. This will keep you evolving and relevant to your network!

Put these tips into action and let us know when you do! We can’t wait to check out your shiny, new profile.