Having an optimized LinkedIn profile is necessary for many reasons. The most important reason is that it reduces the time you’ll spend searching for a job by creating visibility to potential employers searching for your skillset. After optimizing my profile back in 2017, I noticed a huge increase in the frequency of recruiters and employers requesting interviews. 

The cool thing about LinkedIn is that it’s not just an online resume, it’s a platform that allows you to showcase your professional skills, connect with other professionals in your network, and build your own business or professional brand. I think it’s safe to say that LinkedIn isn’t going anywhere any time soon and to remain relevant in the workforce, it’s a good idea to have one. 

Here are 5 easy ways to optimize your LinkedIn profile. 

1. Have an up-to-date Professional Headshot as your Profile Picture

This is your time to shine sis. Do a simple clean beat by your favorite MUA, hire a photographer or use your cell phone (iPhone or Android) and take a bomb profile picture. It’s definitely worth the investment to have professional headshots; the impact of first impressions can go a long way. The pic shouldn’t be blurry, and it shouldn’t have a lot going on in the background. 

According to LinkedIn, you are 14x more likely to be noticed by a potential employer with a good profile pic. 

2. Include Keywords in your Headline to Attract your Ideal Employer 

Your headline should basically say what you do or the type of role you’re seeking. It could be something like this:

Project Manager - Program Manager - IT Manager - Develop and lead large project teams. 

Keep in mind that headlines are searchable so be mindful of what you put out there.

3. Include a Unique & Straight to the Point About Summary

Most people just aren’t going to read a large text block so avoid being super wordy. This is a great section to summarize your overall experience while adding a bit of color to make it unique. List your accomplishments, achievements, core competencies, and any other notable information. 

If you’re currently employed looking for a role in a new industry, this is also a great section to briefly explain what you’re looking for and how previous experience has prepared you for the role. 

In my experience in transitioning from construction to a more technical role, I stated something like this in my about section: Project professional with over six of experience looking to leverage my skills in the IT industry. I then went on to list the skills that prepared me for the role I was seeking. 

4. Show your Work and Accomplishments

We all love a good professional flex right?! I do for sure. LinkedIn is the best place to show what you’ve been working on in and out of the office. Do you volunteer in your local community outreach programs teaching other individuals professional development skills? Did you win employee of the month based on the number of projects you completed on time and within budget? Showcase all of that. 

Even if you have a blog or personal online project portfolio, show it on LinkedIn as it lets potential employers learn more about you and it gives you an edge over the competition. 

5. Request Recommendations & Endorsements

One of the coolest and most valuable features on LinkedIn is the ability to endorse skills and give/receive recommendations. A quick way to optimize your LinkedIn profile is to ask your colleagues and former co-workers for skill endorsements. It’s also a good idea to give endorsements where you see fit as this maintains solid professional relationships. 

It’s the same deal for recommendations. Submit a recommendation request to your previous boss/manager or client asking them to speak to your work ethic, quality of work, and character.

By, Airess Rembert, PMP, Member of Women Of Project Management & Blogger at The Nerd Bae

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