It is becoming more and more common these days for head hunters to use LinkedIn as a device in their research. Recruitment professionals can venture through various industry sectors, target companies and, most commonly, potential candidates with great ease. Profiles are considered based on intriguing content and an impressive level of detail. It may be that you aren’t currently searching for a new job, however being ‘profile strong’ on LinkedIn can uncover great opportunities that you may not have been aware of otherwise.
Here are a few useful tips to get noticed on LinkedIn, enabling you to take advantage of this opportunity:
1. Be the professional you
Show your personality while remaining professional. Note that ‘selfies’ or group pictures with pals may not be appropriate. Getting someone with a high quality digital camera to take some clear and professional head shots may be a more appropriate choice.
2. Create a brand
You are selling yourself as a brand. Take into consideration how you will be received and what you are portraying through your profile .You need to use your profile to get noticed initially, revealing to the point information about your history and what you are now looking to do. Ensuring you capture some of your personality whilst remaining professional.
3. Create an engaging headline
Just like with any new article or blog post, your headline is important. Create a profile headline that may include a current job title but you may also find adding “currently seeking a new challenge may entice someone’s interest onto your profile.
4. Pick out the best bits
Provide an outline of your career expertise, this should just portray a glimpse of your ‘proud moments’ and achievements rather than displaying your whole CV. Remember that if you are actively searching for a career move, stating what your ideal role and aspirations could get you noticed.
5. Expand your network
Joining relevant LinkedIn groups can enable you to browse through industry groups and become a part of those specialising in niche recruiting. Also following key people within your industry will uncover useful information and opportunities within your sector. You can use your offline network through connecting with family and friends, professional associates and connections of your network that will expand your reach.
6. Create a portfolio
Show examples of previous work, from individual pieces, projects or campaigns. Users are able to add URLs to their profiles. So stand out from the crowd and keep recruiters engaged with your brand.
7. Present yourself as a thought leader
Relevant industry content should be shared frequently: begin sharing content specific to your areas of expertise. Additionally, post to your main update feed and also to the groups who you are a part of to produce the greatest level of exposure.
8. Make the first move
Don’t hesitate to approach recruiters, head hunters or hiring managers directly. They will most likely be interested in what you have to say about your industry or you may actually be adding value to their business by looking for new opportunities, so just send them a message through LinkedIn. Executive search company Collingwood have even had experience of being approached via LinkedIn resulting in a senior level hire and an amazing opportunity for the individual. He is still with the global corporation, heading up one of their European divisions – all from a simple message on LinkedIn!
So, as you can see LinkedIn is jam packed with countless opportunities for any career path, opening routes to create and maintain a professional relationship within your industry sector.
Read More: Create a profile on LinkedIn in 7 steps.
