Image Source: CC0 Licence are now as many as 1 billion LinkedIn profiles in the world, with users spanning across an impressive 200 countries. That makes LinkedIn by far the biggest professional global database, and unsurprisingly, up to 72% of recruiters now use this platform when seeking new talent.
As well as brushing up on interview skills and company-specific research, potential recruits now need to learn how to look good on LinkedIn. After all, whether recruiters find you here or simply want to know more after reading your resume, your profile is sure to have a notable impact on your chances of success.
But, how exactly can you look like a professional match worth pursuing? Keep on reading to find out.
Step 1: Perfect Your Headshots
Anyone who says appearances don’t matter has clearly never used social media. These platforms are all about looking good, and LinkedIn is no different. Admittedly, no one here cares how well you can pout, but a recruiter will want to put a face to the name of an interesting candidate.
Recruiters considering your profile will be looking for professionalism above all. They want to see sleek, subtle, and straightforward snaps. Unsurprisingly, Professional headshots also receive roughly 14 more LinkedIn clicks, so you could benefit from working with a company like Premium Headshots to secure the best headshots possible.
A recruiter is sure to appreciate this extra effort. A professional photographer can also let you know precisely which photos will work based on your specific industry.
Step 2: Update Your Profile Monthly
Like all social media, LinkedIn has an algorithm that decides who sees your profile and when. Also like the rest of social media, there’s no one solution for making sure you appear high in LinkedIn searches. However, one thing that seems to make a difference is a full, regularly updated profile.
As well as ensuring your professional information online is always relevant, updating your profile at least once a month makes it more likely that headhunting recruiters will stumble upon your page.
When updating, it’s always important to use keywords that ensure you appear in relevant searches. Try to get specific with these, such as listing your niche rather than a broader industry.
Step 3: Build Your Network
LinkedIn is all about networking, so never make the mistake of simply setting up your profile and leaving it to rot. Everything from joining groups to connecting with past colleagues, etc. can help to get your name out there.
In a broad sense, this is another thing that could get the algorithm onside. A well-connected profile is also a great sign to recruiters that you’re a respected professional in your field. If a recruiter recognises your name or stumbles across shared connections during a LinkedIn background check, you’ll also have a better shot at standing out from other candidates who don’t share those crossovers.
LinkedIn might be like any other social platform you’ve used, but you should still take steps to make yourself look good in these crucial ways.
Always Be Job Hunting 