February 2, 2021

7 Expert LinkedIn Tips to Get Your CV Noticed

Did you know 86% of employers use LinkedIn to look at candidates?

We spoke to some of our recruitment partners who said that they would check a candidate’s social media before offering them a role in their company. With most employers using LinkedIn to find candidates, it’s time give your profile a proper spruce up!

Here are seven expert tips to polish your LinkedIn and attract top employers.

1. Customize Your URL

Make your profile memorable with a personalized URL. Those random numbers and letters at the end of your LinkedIn link? They’ve got to go! Change it to something professional like linkedin.com/yourname. It's easy—just go to the Edit Profile screen and set your custom URL. This little tweak makes your profile look polished and easier to share.

2. Choose a Professional Photo

Let’s talk photos. Ditch the stiff passport photo and opt for a professional, yet approachable image. Think of a headshot where you’re showing a bit of energy, passion, and charisma—perhaps a shot of you in action at a work event or simply a friendly smile against a neutral background. Remember, your photo is often the first thing recruiters see, so make it count!

3. Craft a Compelling Headline

Your headline doesn’t have to be just your job title. This is prime real estate to highlight what makes you unique. Be succinct and focus on your key talents and skills. For example, instead of "Marketing Manager," try something like "Creative Marketing Manager | Driving Brand Growth and Engagement." A compelling headline can capture attention and make recruiters want to learn more about you.

4. Avoid Buzzwords

We all know the buzzwords—"innovative," "motivated," "results-driven." They’ve been used to death and don’t really say much. Be original and infuse your profile with genuine personality instead of relying on boring, overused clichés.

5. Treat It Like a CV

Your LinkedIn profile should be a dynamic version of your CV. Fill in your experience section with bullet points that highlight your achievements and their impact. Use specific metrics and outcomes where possible - employers love to see tangible results. For example, "Increased sales by 30% in six months through targeted marketing campaigns."

6. Join Relevant Groups

Engage with industry-specific groups to show your involvement and interest. These groups can be fantastic for networking, discovering new opportunities, and staying up-to-date with industry trends. Comment on posts, share insights, and connect with group members to build your professional network.

7. Add Contact Information

Don’t forget to include your email and phone number. The easier you make it for people to contact you, the more opportunities you’ll have coming your way.

Final Thoughts

There you have it—seven top tips to get your LinkedIn profile noticed by employers. Remember, your LinkedIn is often your first impression, so take the time to make it shine. Keep your profile updated, engage with your network, and don’t be afraid to show a bit of personality!

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