Elevate Your LinkedIn Profile in 5 Easy Steps

Compelling content that encourages recruiters and HR managers to reach out is especially critical for job seekers because it helps solidify that you’re a match for an open position. Even if you’re not currently in the job market, having a strong and up-to-date LinkedIn profile adds power and credibility to your resume. If your LinkedIn profile has been sitting there gathering dust for the past year or more, here are 5 quick tips to help you bring it back to life:


1. Update Your Photo
Your LinkedIn photo is so important. It speaks volumes about your professionalism and attention to detail. LinkedIn profile photos are meant to be recent headshots. If you have anything else on you page, it’s time to change it. Aim for a photo that is high resolution (not grainy), with great lighting, and a close-up of your face. Don’t forget to smile!

2. Link to Your Current & Previous Employers
Instantly upgrade your LinkedIn profile by linking to your current and previous employer pages. This will allow their company logos to be displayed on your profile, and it adds credibility and visual appeal to your page. To do this, you’ll need to edit the company name in your “Experience”’ section and select your current or previous employer from the list of options. If your employer doesn’t have a LinkedIn page, this is a great time to help them make one. You’ll both see benefits from a sales, marketing, and HR standpoint.

3. Cut the Bulk
Don’t write in paragraph form on your LinkedIn profile—the goal is to make it easy for recruiters and HR managers to quickly see what you’ve done in current and prior roles. Keep your career summary and responsibilities short and simple. A bulleted list is a great way to do this. LinkedIn doesn’t let you add bullet points from their platform, but you can paste them in on your own.

4. Add Industry Rich Keywords
Know your industry. Make sure that keywords you’d find in job descriptions for roles you’re interested in have made their way into your LinkedIn profile (and resume). For example, if you’re looking for a sales job, you’d want to have keywords like “lead generation,” “cold calling,” or “business development” listed in your “Featured Skills & Endorsements” Section. Having the right keywords helps hiring managers find your page if they are looking to hire, and if you’re using LinkedIn to apply to positions (and you should be) then it ensures you’re seen as a “match” by LinkedIn’s software.

5. Follow Companies You Admire
Send a message about what you’re interested in by following companies who are doing work that you admire. When you’re in the job market, following smart companies helps you stay connected to the work they’re doing and the jobs they have posted. It also ensures you’re aware of exciting announcements and projects they’re working on—and this can be great small talk in networking or interview settings.