Having a LinkedIn profile is one of the most helpful things a candidate can do when searching for a new job. If you’re new to LinkedIn, or think that you could use a few pointers on updating your profile, never fear. Focusing on a handful of main fixes can help position you to be at the forefront of hiring managers and recruiters on the Internet. This week on the Engineering Search Partners blog, we’ve compiled some of the best LinkedIn profile suggestions to help any job hunter further their career goals.
Top 5 Ways to Improve Your LinkedIn Profile 
- Get a Close-Up. Do you have a professional-looking head shot accompanying your profile? A photo gives recruiters and hiring managers an idea of what to expect if they call you in for an interview, and it’s your first opportunity to make a good impression. Avoid any of the following: using a blurry photo, using a mobile selfie (self-portrait), a photo that’s clearly been cropped, or a photo that seems like it could be inappropriate for business use. Grab a close friend or relative and ask them take a quick photo of you in your best shirt, and this should suffice.
- Master Your Headline. Your headline should not be your job title alone. Many LinkedIn members take advantage of this section use this section for keywords that are highly searchable and that paint an accurate picture of who they are and what they’re capable of.
- Make Sure Your Profile is Complete. This might sound like obvious advice, but making sure that all pieces and parts of your profile are filled out is important. Use the summary area to clearly present who you are, what you have to offer and what your goals are. This is where you shine!
- Take Advantage of Groups. If you’re unfamiliar with LinkedIn Groups, they are a wonderful way to network. Demonstrate your social skills (after all, LinkedIn is a social site) by connecting with like-minded individuals who are interested in the same areas you are. It could be the missing link to making a great connection for a job lead.
- Ask for Recommendations. Having recommendations on your profile allows other to speak on behalf of the caliber of your work. If you’re unsure about asking for recommendations, a general rule is to offer to write one for someone else. Generally, they’ll be more than happy to return the favor. Former supervisors and colleagues make for the best recommendations, but don’t hesitate to reach out to newer connections, too.
Following these basic tips will help make you a more promising candidate and will set you apart from the other profiles on LinkedIn. If you’re an avid user of LinkedIn, what other suggestions would you recommend to someone using it to find their next job? Share with us by leaving a comment below! And while you’re on LinkedIn, we invite you to connect with Pat Batchelor and follow the Engineering Search Partners page!