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linkedin basics

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Did you know that there are 675 million LinkedIn users? 

That includes users in > 200 countries and territories. 

Now it should make sense that 2 new members join LinkedIn every second and that there are 46 million students on LinkedIn. 

If you are not on LinkedIn, you are missing out!

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Some people think that resumes and LinkedIn profiles are interchangeable. 

What would be the point of having a LinkedIn profile if this were true? 

They each have their own qualities and combined, provide employers or recruiters with more information about you.

Below are some of the differences.  

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The 3 most important components of your LinkedIn profile are your:

Head shot

You need your head shot to be just right.  A picture with you appropriately dressed and clearly showing your face is ideal.  Not having a photograph on your profile will seem like you are hiding something.  If you cannot get a friend to take an appropriate picture, it is worth making the investment and hiring a professional.  When selecting who can view your profile, select “all” so that everyone will be able to see your face.

 

Headline

Your headline appears below your head shot on all LinkedIn communication.  You are allowed 120 characters, so try to maximise your opportunity to make an impression and use them all.  The search engine searches this area more than any other area on your profile.  Ensure that you use the right keywords and language so that you will be found.  Titles that you are seeking or are aspiring to need to be included here.

 

Summary

The "Summary/About Section" is something that people often miss when building their profiles.  It is the opportunity to use your own voice to express yourself and make people understand more about your personality.  Below are the most important components to include in your LinkedIn "About" or "Summary" section (refer to the PDF below for an extract from, "The Social Media Job Search Workbook" by Joshua Waldman:

  • Action plan statement

  • Which problem you can help your industry solve

  • What you do best

  • What you are looking to do exactly

  • Your contact details

 

Now that you understand the basics, get busy and build your profile.  You can always add to it once you have the skeleton.  Don’t miss out on one of the best job search strategies available.

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