Interesting quick read today at Careerealism about fine tuning your Linked In profile — http://www.careerealism.com/linkedin-profile-tune-up-clues/
I’m a firm believer in the power of Linked In, although I do get annoyed at just how much it’s becoming more and more of a traditional job board. There is still a lot of benefit in being an active participant on Linked In for a number of reasons.
Those in job-search mode can find some great opportunities but, more importantly, can be found by recruiters. It’s also a great networking tool and a good way to tap into people who can provide some great advice, guidance and with whom you can discuss like-minded situations. Of course, for recruiters, it’s a great way to find talent – both active and passive.
But the key to being found on Linked In – for whatever reasons – is to have a fully optimized profile. In short, I tell my clients:
1. A picture says a thousand words. Don’t forget to include one and make sure it is appropriate. Unless you are a swimsuit model, a picture of you in your swimsuit on your last vacation is not appropriate. Neither is the one in the strapless mini-dress at your best friend’s wedding. Or the one where you were hoisting two fists of beer. Remember, this is a professional site and not Facebook (BTW, you should be careful there as well but that’s for another day).
2. Ensure you make use of the ‘headline’ feature under your name. Some people choose to simply list their current (or former) titles. Others (like me) choose to list key competencies which highlight the type of services I provide.
3. Don’t forget the summary. This is key and perhaps the most difficult part of the profile to craft. It should speak about who you are, what you do and give the reader an insight into you! Think of it as your ‘elevator pitch.’ List your competencies here as well – either in a bulleted format or in a paragraph. You want the reader to learn a little about you and want to reach out to learn more.
4. List your current and past employment and don’t forget to summarize your roles. But do not copy your resume here! Think of it as a teaser – just enough to get the reader to reach out and want to learn more. It’s not meant as a laundry list of every little thing you did. Think achievements! Think accomplishments! Think of the overarching reason for your role.
5. Skills and Expertise. Think of all of the skills you bring to the table. As you begin typing them, a drop down list will appear. Choose the ones most relevant for you – Linked In has provided a list of the most searched-on skills and expertise.
6. Education. List your education. If you are a recent grad, list your courses here or under the ‘courses’ section.
7. Organizations/Volunteer. If you are active in your community or with different organizations (including boards), list that as well.
8. If you have exciting or different interests, go ahead and list them. You never know what will pique someone’s interest in you!
9. Recommendations. Give some and get some. These are important and are relied upon quite heavily (much more so than the endorsements feature which people seem to click on randomly).
10. Don’t forget to list what you want to be contacted for and how to be contacted. If you are not comfortable listing your phone number or e-mail, don’t. If someone wants to get in touch with you, they will either send you an InMail or ask to connect with you.
Now take a look at your profile and optimize it. It’ll make all the difference in the world.
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