5 tips to boost your profile on LinkedIn and get hired

Looking for jobs on LinkedIn but in need of some tips to boost your profile? Whether you’re looking for a mid-career switch or recently laid off, LinkedIn should not be overlooked as a platform for getting noticed by future employers.

So much more than a social networking tool, LinkedIn allows you to expand your professional network, browse jobs, and create a profile highlighting your experience and skills.

In the current digital age, cultivating a personal brand online is key to standing out amongst the competition when looking for a new job.

It’s not just for fresh graduates either. The higher up you get, the narrower the funnel of jobs – especially with the high unemployment rates and tough competition for lesser jobs.

Simply opening a LinkedIn account and listing your past qualifications and experiences is not enough, you’ll also need to work on your profile and connections.

You can also pay for LinkedIn premium which gives you some added features, but if you’d prefer to save some money, here are some tips to make the most out of a free account.

Boost your profile

Your LinkedIn profile is the first step to getting noticed – so make sure it’s a good one. A simple click takes a viewer away from your page so spend time crafting a good profile that best highlights your accomplishments.

Make sure there’s also an updated profile picture of yourself. According to LinkedIn, you should “make sure the picture is recent and looks like you, make up your face takes up around 60% of it (long-distance shots don’t stand out), wear what you would like to wear to work, and smile with your eyes!”

Avoid buzzwords

One of the best tips by LinkedIn is that you avoid overused buzzwords in your headline and summary as it can look meaningless and won’t convince people you really have these qualities.

Stay way from merely listing buzzwords such as “innovative”, “experienced”, and “leadership” but instead make sure you’re using LinkedIn features – such as listing your experience, asking for recommendations and adding skills – to demonstrate these qualities instead.

Let your skills shine

The skills list on your LinkedIn profile allows you to choose from an extensive list of skills that are relevant to your career and your job experience.

This section also allows you to reevaluate your skills and identify which area you need upskilling or reskilling in, which you can do via LinkedIn courses or other online education platforms.

While you should be listing skill relevant to your job experience, avoid listing too many – especially if they don’t really match what you’re qualified for.

You can also take a skills assessment which allows you to demonstrate the level of your skillset and display a Verified Skills badge on your profile.

According to LinkedIn, “Data shows that candidates with verified skills are around 30% more likely to be hired for the roles they apply for – and displaying proof your abilities strengthens your personal brand more generally as well. Displaying the results of your skills assessments is entirely voluntary, and you can retake the tests as often as you like before showing that you’ve passed.”

Grow your network

If you’re not using LinkedIn to grow your professional network, then you’re not doing it right. It’s an easy and convenient way to expand your circle and get in touch with people in your industry.

With cancelled in-person events due to the current pandemic, LinkedIn offers an online alternative to networking. It may take time to expand your network and gain a quality following, but investing some time can help you get there.

You can also reach out to recruiters who look for talent in your specific industry and drop them a line to see if they are willing to connect. When a job opportunity arises that matches your skills, they’ve got you in their radar.

You can also connect and communicate with your LinkedIn connections by commenting on their posts to get noticed and network with your industry peers.

According to LinkedIn, “A comment that can express that viewpoint starts to establish your opinion and thought-leadership. It’s also more likely to draw additional comments, which then raise your profile across LinkedIn. Bear this mind when you’re writing your comment – and make sure you’re saying something you’re happy for people to associate with you.”

Share and post content

You should also be an active LinkedIn user by sharing and posting your own content. The type of content you post is up to you, depending on whether you’re using LinkedIn to build a personal brand, promote your business, or showcase your skills.

You can also publish long-form content, which is like a built-in blog feature where you can express your thoughts and points of view and share them with your network. Doing so also allows you to start a conversation with your network, especially if you get loads of comments!

Take note of these LinkedIn tips and spend some time building your profile. Soon, you’ll see an increase in profile views and connections which could lead to your path for future employment.