Is your LinkedIn profile grabbing recruiters’ attention?
LinkedIn (LI) offers you an excellent opportunity to market your career accomplishments to recruiters; which means it’s vital to optimize your LI profile to be sure you’re grabbing their attention. If you’ve noticed that your profile isn’t getting results, it’s time to make some changes.
A well-written LI profile will draw recruiters who are eager to talk with you about your expertise, and how you could enhance their team. Here are a few key strategies to help you build a LI profile that will compel headhunters to look your way when they’re sourcing top talent for their clients’ organizations.
Key Strategy #1: Include a Professional-looking Photo
Create a great first impression with a sharp, professional-looking photo. Simplicity is the key to an effective LI photograph. It should be a headshot, including your neck and the tops of your shoulders. Use a white background, wear professional attire and be sure to smile.
A polished LI photograph inspires recruiters to envision you as a valuable part of their organization.
Key Strategy #2: Craft a Compelling Headline (or Tag Line)
Your tag line, or headline, entices recruiters to read more about you. They will use keywords when searching for potential candidates, so when you are crafting your tag line, be specific about who you are and what you specialize in. For example, stating that you are a “Marketing Specialist” doesn’t evoke interest or speak to your expertise.
Grab your audience’s attention by highlighting your specialty. Be specific about your goals, and emphasize your accomplishments. For example, “Digital Strategist specializing in Mobile Marketing” is a tag line that commands attention. It also includes keywords recruiters use when sourcing talent.
Your tag line is the first thing a recruiter reads; if it’s well-written, it will motivate them to dig deeper into your profile.
Key Strategy #3: Leverage Your Strengths in Your Summary
Your LI Summary section is where you should highlight your key skills and expertise in your field. Take advantage of this space and focus on your key accomplishments. You have 2,000 characters to make yourself stand out, so use them wisely.
Do a quick review of your current LI profile:
- Have you recorded your key career accomplishments?
- Are your results noted in quantifiable terms (i.e., using $, %, and #) to grab recruiters’ attention?
- Could a recruiter quickly determine the expertise you offer?
Avoid using vague phrases such as, “accomplished professional” or “excellent communicator”. Instead, focus on your specific areas of expertise, and what you have to offer employers. Follow up with bullet points that demonstrate your achievements.
Your profile should set you apart from the competition by showcasing your accomplishments, and highlighting your strengths. When you have an optimized LI profile, you’ll leave recruiters eager to know more about you, which will result in quicker connections.
Wishing you much career success!
Joanne
Author: Joanne Loberg of JL Careers Inc. is a Certified Executive Coach and Internationally Certified Career Management Professional. She specializes in coaching professional and executive clients, and providing career advancement strategies. Copyright JL Careers Inc. All rights reserved.
Need help creating a LinkedIn Tag Line and Summary that will grab the attention of recruiters and head-hunters? Let’s connect to book a complimentary 20-minute telephone LinkedIn Profile Consultation. I’ll review your LinkedIn profile and provide a critique outlining areas needing strengthening and revision.
