LinkedIn Profile Checklist

The business-oriented social networking service that is LinkedIn is popular for a variety of reasons. For hiring firms, it is one of the best platforms for finding candidates. It is also a way to verify background information from the candidate. It is a tool to network and get in touch with colleagues, getting introduced to new professionals and discovering new opportunities (Quora)

Having an updated and relevant profile on LinkedIn could be vital for your next career move. The following tips were derived from LinkedIn itself, so make sure whether your seeking new opportunities or not you have the following present on your profile:

PHOTO:

Your professional photo does not need to be fancy. You can simply take it with your smartphone while you stand in front of a blank background. Wear a nice shirt, and give the camera a smile! The one big suggestion we have here is for this photo to be a “selfie” – just of you! Try not to crop a photo that has other people present in it.

HEADLINE:

Do you consider yourself a Tech Guru? Are you a Cisco Certified Network Associate? Make it known to your network! You can be creative here by emphasizing your best skill, job industry, or objective.

SUMMARY:

Here is the perfect place to show off how you stand out, what motivates you, or what you want your future to look like in terms of a career path.

EXPERIENCE:

Just as your resume is set up, make job titles apparent and then provide descriptions with what you’ve accomplished in past roles. Pro Tip: include samples of work!

VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE:

This is the chance for you to show what is important to you outside of work. It also shows that you can manage both a career and make time for what interests you.

SKILLS & EXPERTISE:

We recommend listing at least 5 key skills to endorse yourself.

HONORS & AWARDS:

Nothing is too small to mention!

COURSES:

List classes that show off your knowledge

PROJECTS:

Anything from leading an assignment to developing something yourself, talk about it.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Ask managers, co-workers, and professors who’ve worked closely with you to write you a recommendation. This give extra credibility to your strengths and skills.

Finally, connect with colleagues, friends, family, classmates, and professionals in your industry. Follow companies you’ve worked for, companies in your industry, and companies you find interesting. Happy Networking!

The Autumn Group can help you as an IT professional find your next contract position. We post all open positions to our LinkedIn page. Connect with us and check out our current opportunities.