Linkedin! You regularly hear us talk about the importance of utilizing LinkedIn to assist with your job search.  Therefore, today we will look at some of the things you need to do to have a strong LinkedIn profile. 

1. Choose a Great Photo - The photo should be a recent headshot and look professional. Make sure your face is centered in the image and wear work-appropriate clothing.  While the photo can show your personality, remember that to best take full advantage of LinkedIn, you will want to be connecting with other professionals within your network.  They will see this photo and if they have never met you before, this will be their first impression of you. 

• Headline – this is the text that appears just below your photo and name.  This can either describe what you do in a unique way or simply be your job title.  Either way, keep it related to your profession.   

• Summary - You should include all the same information as your current resume or curriculum vitae. This information will include your past and present employment, education, volunteer experience, and skills. Use your profile like a resume and provide prospective employers with detailed information about your skills and experience.

• Update your Skills – the skills section falls below your experience, education and volunteer section.  The Skills section allows you to list skills about yourself that others can endorse you for.  I encourage you to list skills that are relevant to your job.  This will help you come up in searches when recruiters and hiring managers are searching LinkedIn for qualified applicants. 

• Add Connections and grow your network – grow your network.  Connect with other professionals within your industry.  It does not only need to be your friends and family.  Remember, this is a professional networking tool.  Connect with other professionals in your field.  If you connect with someone you have never met before, send them a message with the connection request letting them know why you want to connect. 

• Join Groups – joining industry and work-related groups is a great way to grow your network and stay up to date on relevant market information. 

• Be Engaged - like share and comment on relevant posts, especially those within your industry.  When you do leave comments, be sure they are thoughtful and add to the conversation. 

These are just some of our tips to help you get started with building a strong LinkedIn profile.  If you have any questions around LinkedIn or would like to discuss with us further, feel free to contact us!

Happy Job Hunting and Good Luck!