By Erin Kennedy, Certified Professional Resume Writer
LinkedIn has become one of the most effective social networking sites for business professionals. Some people have used it to find better jobs within their industry while others do well using it for prospecting. Whether you are actively searching for a new career, or just checking out what opportunities are out there, having a strong LinkedIn profile is a must.
Not sure how to get your LinkedIn profile ready for the job search? Here are some tips to get your started…
1. Write a dynamic headline with a summary on your profile. Use your most important keywords in both for search engine optimization purposes, but speak directly to the person you’d most like to connect with. Keep it concise and communicate clearly.
2. Use a professional photo that makes you look serious about doing business. Don’t use a full body shot or a photo that includes other people. Use a great head shot and smile.
3. When you include a link to your website, select the “other” block and use keywords so that you can build better inbound links to your web properties.
4. Include a call to action in your profile. Say something like “to get more prospects for your business in a shorter time, call xxx-xxx-xxxx or message me directly through LinkedIn”.
5. Get rid of LinkedIn’s dynamic URL. They’re ugly and ineffective. Instead, edit the link and use your name.
6. Make sure to complete your education and experience sections. Again, use keywords. Keywords help to ensure that your LinkedIn profile can be found in the search engines.
7. Proofread your profile before saving it. Be sure to correct any spelling and/or punctuation errors. Your profile is a reflection of you, so you want it to look professional. Consider having a friend or colleague look over it before you publish it.
8. Is your profile public? It should be. Making connections with others in your industry is key to staying in touch with job openings, industry trends, etc.
9. Ask people you know and with whom you have done business to “recommend” you. DO NOT blast all of your contacts and ask for a recommendation. Only ask people you know and have done business with.
10. Finally, add a few widgets to your profile. You can add your blog feed, Twitter feed, and other widgets that help flesh out who you are.
If you follow these 10 tips to improve your LinkedIn profile you’ll find yourself making more contacts and quite possibly, score your next big career opportunity through LinkedIn.
About the Author
Erin Kennedy, CPRW, CERW, BS/HR, is a Certified Professional & Executive Resume Writer/Career Consultant, and the President of Professional Resume Services, Inc., home to some of the best resume writers on the planet. She is a nationally published writer and contributor of 10+ best-selling career books. She has achieved international recognition following yearly nominations and wins of the prestigious T.O.R.I. (Toast of the Resume Industry) Award. Erin has written thousands of resumes for executives and professionals. http://exclusive-executive-resumes.com.
Check out the latest Career Insider eNewsletter - March 29, 2012.
