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Top Tips for Candidates: A Guide to Using LinkedIn

22 July 2021

By Chelsea Francis

Top Tips for Candidates: A Guide to Using LinkedIn

​LinkedIn can be a handy tool for those looking for a job or new opportunity, here are our top tips on making the most of the platform.

Update Your Profile

First things first, make sure your profile is up to date. Ensure it has all of your jobs and education listed fully, all of the details are correct, and you have a clear and professional profile picture that shows your face. Make sure you’re smiling and look approachable, friendly, and professional.

Create the Perfect LinkedIn Headline

Having the perfect headline can help you stand out from the crowd on LinkedIn, as it’s the first thing anyone sees. Time to make yourself sound appealing by listing your dream job, work experience, relevant hobbies, or educational achievements. Whatever will make you stand out from the rest on LinkedIn is key.

A top tip here is to use keywords in your headline that people may be searching for. For example, if you’re looking for work as a Structural Engineer, be sure to include the words ‘Structural Engineer’ in your headline to make you searchable.

Ask for Recommendations and Endorsements for Your Skills

It’s a good idea to ask colleagues and employers to add testimonials and endorsements to your profile for the skills you have or any big projects you’ve worked on. Try to think about what skills and experience you have that other candidates may not have and include these.

Search for Jobs on LinkedIn

It’s easy to search for jobs directly on LinkedIn. You can use the search function to look for jobs in your area and chosen field and sign up for job alerts, so you’re the first to know when new opportunities arise.

It’s also a good idea to follow companies that you’d like to work with on LinkedIn. Then you’ll know if they post any new job openings on their LinkedIn company page.

Get Networking

There’s no point in having a great LinkedIn profile if you don’t have any connections. Start by connecting with colleagues and employers, past and present, and then you can reach out to other people who you may not know but would like to get to know. Of course, you shouldn’t just add random people but instead choose to connect with people who have similar skills as you, work in the same industry as you do (or want to), and people who could be potential mentors. It’s good practice to add a personalised message to your connection request introducing yourself. This could also mean your connection request is more likely to be accepted.

Be Social

LinkedIn is a professional social media platform, so its purpose is to use it socially. Comment on interesting posts, share status updates of your achievements or articles you’ve read that are industry-relevant, share articles on LinkedIn and contribute your own. The more people can see your activity on LinkedIn, the more they will get to know you and see you as someone knowledgeable in their chosen field.

At St David Recruitment Services, we can helpyou find your next job or maybe even your dream job! Get in touch with our team today via our website or by calling 02920 797 920.

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