LinkedIn Basics – what you need to know

Did you know that there are 467 million LinkedIn users in more than 200 countries? 2 new users join LinkedIn every second and there are 3 million active job listings . If you are not on LinkedIn, you are missing out!

Some people think that resumes and LinkedIn profiles are interchangeable. What would be the point of having a LinkedIn profile if this were true? Resumes and LinkedIn profiles each have their own qualities and when combined, provide employers or recruiters with more information about you.

Here are some of the differences

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

• Headshot
• Headline
• Summary

You need your headshot 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.

Your headline appears below your headshot 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.

The summary 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. These are the most important components to include in your LinkedIn summary:

• 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.

About Karen

Karen Lewitton is a founding member of the FlexCoach panel of career and executive coaches.  Having worked in Cape Town, San Francisco, London and Sydney in professional services, investment banking, asset management, recruitment (14 years in Australia) and coaching, Karen has a diverse background and good understanding of different cultures.

Karen enjoys helping people discover their goals and providing the tools to assist realisation.

FlexCareers offers a free 30-min chemistry session with our coaches.  You can connect with Karen here