5 Tips to Improve Your LinkedIn Profile
No matter what you are studying or where you are in your career, a LinkedIn profile is an absolute necessity. LinkedIn is a social media platform for people to connect on a professional level and for companies to list job opportunities. It can be tricky to navigate the platform’s different features, but these five tips will help you polish your profile and have recruiters reaching out to you in no time!
Make sure your photo is polished
Your profile picture is most likely the first thing people see when they view your profile. You want to make sure your picture is the perfect fit for your personal brand so, it should match the characteristics of the industry you are hoping to pursue. Not only should the picture fit the personality of your industry, but it should be of high quality with good lighting. No worries, if you do not have the time or money for a professional photographer, just grab your phone and ask a friend to take a quick headshot for you!
Use SAR (Situation, Action, Result) structure for your experience descriptions
The experience section of your profile is highly important because it’s a reflection of your professional history. In order to have an effective description try using SAR statements, and being as specific as you can. First, describe the situation. Then, explain what you did in that position, and close the statement with what you accomplished. Here is an example: “Designed over 5 pieces of original content including photos, videos, blog posts, and slideshows each month to engage the social media followers of The Pocket Palette, resulting in an increase of the company’s social media presence.”
Add a note when you connect with others
Whenever you want to connect with others on LinkedIn, the platform gives the option to add a note. You should always explain to the professional how you know each other and/or thank them for what they have done for you. It’s always good to add a personal touch to the connection!
Change your LinkedIn profile URL
Each account on LinkedIn has a URL attached to it. Personalize yours so that the URL matches with your first and last name. You can do so by going to your profile and clicking “edit public profile and URL” in the upper right corner of your profile page. After you are redirected, click the pencil in the upper right corner to personalize the URL.
Add your LinkedIn URL to your email signature and connect with others!
After you have finalized the edits on your LinkedIn profile, link your new personalized URL to your email signature. When you email a professional, they can have easy access to your profile and connect with you. Don’t forget to connect with people you already know! Connect with past professors, family friends, and professionals you have met at different events.
COUNTDOWN ALERT! The 2020 Spring Conference Launch Party is in 3 DAYS! I hope you are excited for a night filled with delectable treats and lots of fun. Get your free tickets off of Eventbrite, and follow GWWIB on Instagram @GWWIB for updates leading up to the party! Can’t wait to see everyone there!!
Cheers,
Kendall Carter
GWWIB Spring Conference Marketing Director
Still want more LinkedIn tips? Check out these two blog posts from some of our favorite brands!