Capture the attention of recruiters by optimizing your LinkedIn profile
Whether you're currently on the job hunt or simply looking to improve your social media profiles for networking purposes, optimizing your LinkedIn profile is a smart idea. According to a The Social Shepherd, 72% of recruiters turn to LinkedIn for finding new job candidates. In the current digital era, optimizing your LinkedIn profile is more important than ever to stand out among other professionals in your field.
How to get noticed on LinkedIn by recruiters
It can be challenging to figure out exactly how to make your LinkedIn profile attractive to recruiters. Are you wondering what truly makes a difference, which features you should pay attention to, and how often you should update your status?
Don't worry! We have some LinkedIn tips for job seekers on how to get noticed by recruiters on LinkedIn and how to attract other professionals in your field.
Optimize your profile
You want to ensure you're making a great first impression when recruiters initially hit your LinkedIn profile. The good news is that LinkedIn walks you through each step to optimizing your profile. Be sure to fill out each section of your profile as thoroughly as you can, providing plenty of detail on your past and current job positions.
Think outside the box to really make your profile stand out. A great way to do this is by providing a captivating intro section and using bullet points throughout your profile for easier readability. Also, think about uploading an example of your work in the Featured or Media sections of your profile. When you're thinking about how to get noticed on LinkedIn, having a fully-complete, all-star profile is one of the best ways to keep recruiters engaged.
Keep your social media sociable
Although it may seem obvious, many people forget to be social on their social media platforms. This is especially important when you're trying to stand out in the sea of LinkedIn users and find a new job. Be sure to interact with others on the platform at least every other day.
Try interacting with people in two different ways. First, communicate with your current LinkedIn connections. You can do this by commenting on their status updates and the articles they write. You can also reach out to them and ask them to connect you to their LinkedIn connections in your industry that are relevant to your job search. The more active you are on LinkedIn, the more visible you become to recruiters that your connections know.
Second, consider reaching out to people you aren't connected with yet. You can find these people in the “My Network” section of LinkedIn under the “Recommended for You” category. Additionally, try searching for companies you have an interest in working for and explore their employees listed on LinkedIn. You can either directly request to connect with them or send them a message and introduce yourself.
Expert tip: Whenever someone comments on one of your posts, make sure you reply and keep the conversation going.
Stay consistent
All too often, LinkedIn users forget to show up on the platform and remain active on a consistent basis. Remember, consistency is key when you're trying to make a positive impression on any social media platform. Recruiters will want to see that you're interested enough to log in and share valuable content on a weekly basis.
Best practice LinkedIn tips
While we've explained the most important ways to get eyes on your profile, don't forget these best practice LinkedIn profile tips for job seekers:
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Upload a good headshot
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Write an attention-grabbing headline
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Use keywords throughout your profile to match likely recruiter search terms
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Add detail for every role in the last 10 years, including your area of responsibility and achievements
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Request endorsements and recommendations
Connect, communicate, repeat
The bottom line? If you're trying to figure out how to get recruiters to notice you on LinkedIn, be sure to remain active.
Taking the time to optimize your LinkedIn profile will allow recruiters to find you among the thousands of other users. Regardless of whether you're trying to find a new job or simply putting feelers out for available positions, taking the time to improve your LinkedIn profile can benefit you in several ways.
Need more input on how to get noticed on LinkedIn? We offer LinkedIn makeover services to help you make the most of this platform.
This article was originally written by Ellen Bickford and has been updated by Jen David.