LinkedIn is the social platform you want to use to push your professional profile under the spotlight. You use it to stay in contact with people from your industry, join groups, get relevant news, look for jobs, and build an online resume. As an application you would send to a potential recruiter, your LinkedIn profile must represent your work experience and skills perfectly. A well-rounded profile on LinkedIn will help you get in contact with the right people, show off your skills, and get the dream job.
Here are some tips on how to build the best LinkedIn profile.
1. Headline and Industry
Whether you choose to display your current position or your area of expertise, choose it well. This is one of the first pieces of information about yourself that potential contacts will see and check out. Don't forget to enter the industry you work in so you show up in relevant profile searches.
2. Photo
One word: professional. This isn't Facebook. No pictures in a bikini on the beach or from your birthday party. It doesn't have to be a professional headshot. Being casual is ok, as long as it stays professional. Most people tweeting on a professional level will use the same picture for both social networks, so when being searched for, they will be recognized easier.
3. Contact Info
Use this section to list your other social media profiles, personal blog, or link to your company's website.
4. Summary
Don't skip this important part, but don't make it too long either. Whether you choose to write it at the 1st or 3rd person, talk briefly about your skills, experience and aspirations. If you are on the job market, this is where you should explain what you are looking for in your next position. Add the best way to contact you and a link to your portfolio or best accomplishment.
5. Skills
Your contacts will be able to endorse you for your skills so choose them well, even though LinkedIn will sometimes suggest new ones. You can re-arrange them in the order you choose. The most important ones to you should be at the top.
6. Experience
Don't be afraid to be thorough, list your responsibilities, use numbers and action verbs. If relevant, show what you have done using the "add link/upload file" option.
7. Projects
You work on projects that deserve their own section or that you don't want to see burried in ythe list of your jobs? Add them here, and link the company and/or people involved.
8. Publications
You write articles or books? This is where to show off your writing skills!
9. Groups
Join groups relevant to your industry, position, and interests. Display them on your profile to show you are engaged in more than your current job.
10. Volunteer Experience
Show that you care! List the causes you support and are involved with. Your life is about more than your job.
Don't forget to have a look at the other sections suggested by LinkedIn like Education, Languages, Independent Courses, etc. The more you explain about you have done, the more noticed you'll be!