How to Make a Profile that Commands Attention
The Internet has revolutionized the job market today, both changing the way we work and the way we find work. With that being said, LinkedIn has perhaps had more of an influence on the way people look for and find new employment than any other tool or site online. The good news is that it has made the job search experience a lot easier; the days of circling positions in the classifieds section and dropping off resumes are long over!
With LinkedIn, users have what is essentially a resume on steroids to showcase their skills and work experience, 24-7. Considering job recruiters now look to LinkedIn first when filling positions, your profile is invaluable in terms of giving you greater visibility. What’s more is that you can use LinkedIn to connect to the people and companies who can and will influence your future employment prospects, and this is also a great way to attract more customers if you’re a small business owner.
By now you should be convinced that having a presence on LinkedIn is a must for those who are looking for work or even those who are employed and simply want to keep their options open. If you want to know how to make a profile, the first step is learning what’s required. There are a variety of fields in a that, together, will portray to recruiters and others who you are and what you do. This is where you make your first impression so make it a good one!
First off, the ‘Snapshot’ section acts as somewhat of a business card, giving the viewer an overview of your current and past positions, education, any websites you own and other basic details. Then, where things really get juicy is in the ‘Summary’ field. Here is where you really try to sell yourself by summarizing your experience and highlighting why it is that you’re great at what you do. You can also add specific information about your skill set in the ‘Specialties’ section to give people a better idea of your areas of expertise. Round out your summary by adding a chronological detailing of your work experience and education, as well as recommendations from previous employers or associates. In the ‘Additional Info’ section, you can add anything else that a recruiter might find relevant, including a list of awards, your membership to various groups or associations, your interests, and any websites or blogs with which you are associated.
So now that you know how to make a profile or at least what’s involved in a great profile, the hard part is knowing how to make a profile and how to do it well. Millions of people have LinkedIn profiles but that doesn’t mean they’ve created their profiles in such a way that they will be noticed or that they will gain more job prospects as a result. There’s a strategy for how to make a profile that really stands out, commands attention and brings results.