LinkedIn isn’t just a digital CV. It’s your online billboard, shopfront, and networking hub rolled into one. With over 600 million users, it’s where recruiters look when they’re hunting for talent, and it’s where you need to stand out if you’re serious about career progression.
If you want recruiters to find you (and actually contact you), your profile needs more than a basic job title and a blurry photo from 2016. Here’s how to make your LinkedIn profile work for you, not just sit there gathering digital dust.
- Make Your Profile Look the Part
First impressions count. Use a professional photo, ideally one where you’re not holding a cocktail or wearing sunglasses. Your headline should be more than just your job title. Make it a punchy snapshot of what you do and the value you bring. Think of it as your elevator pitch in one line.
Write a summary that actually says something. Be clear about your skills, experience, and what you’re looking for. Keep it professional but also let a bit of personality show. People hire people, not CVs.
- Fill In Every Section Like You Mean It
Don’t leave your profile half-finished. List your work history, education, certifications, and skills in full. Be specific. Vague roles like “Manager” or “Engineer” tell recruiters nothing. Also, make sure your contact info is visible. Don’t make it hard for someone to offer you a job.
- Use Keywords That Actually Matter
Recruiters search LinkedIn the same way they use Google. That means your profile needs the right keywords (job titles, tools, and industry-specific terms) added naturally throughout. If your profile doesn’t include what they’re searching for, you won’t show up.
- Show, Don’t Just Tell
Anyone can say they’re “results-driven.” Prove it. Use numbers and real accomplishments to back up your experience. “Increased production efficiency by 30%” beats “responsible for improving processes” every time.
- Ask for Recommendations (and Give Them Too)
Genuine recommendations from colleagues, managers, or clients carry weight. Don’t hesitate to ask for them and return the favour when you can. Endorsements help, but written recommendations are much more impactful.
- Post Like a Professional
Share industry news, comment on trends, or post useful insights related to your field. This shows you’re active and informed. You don’t need to go viral. Consistency and relevance matter more than follower counts.
- Don’t Just Lurk. Network
Join groups, comment on posts, and send personalised connection requests. Skip the generic “I’d like to add you to my network” message. Take 10 extra seconds to explain why you’re connecting. It makes a big difference.
- Showcase Your Skills and Keep Them Updated
Your skills section is not just filler. List your most relevant skills, and make sure they reflect your current role and experience. LinkedIn uses this data to match you with jobs. Recruiters filter candidates using these too.
- Use LinkedIn’s Job Hunting Tools
Switch on the “Open to Work” setting. If you’re job-hunting discreetly, you can make it visible only to recruiters. Tailor your preferences by job type, location, and industry so they know exactly what you’re looking for.
- Keep It Professional
LinkedIn is not the place for controversial takes or personal rants. Everything you post should align with your professional image. Assume recruiters are watching, because many of them are.
Final Thought: Keep It Alive
A strong LinkedIn profile isn’t something you set and forget. Keep it current, engage regularly, and build connections. The more active you are, the more visible you become and the better your chances of getting noticed by the right recruiters.
