The first few days in a job search can offer a flurry of activity. It can be tough to keep up momentum. Today is the fourth of 10 posts sharing concrete to-dos for your search, focused on how to update LinkedIn and to make it work for you.
The big picture first:
1) Evaluate your message. LinkedIn offers a way to share details about yourself with the world. Before you consider making updates, take an hour to consider what it is that you want people to know.
2) Understand your strengths. Before you begin updating or sharing new content, it is helpful to understand how others see you. Our personal branding exercise helps you to generate feedback from others that can provide you with rich data as you're exploring what you want to convey. Or, check out StrengthsFinder.
3) Review your past posts. When you’re generating new content, ensure that past content is what you want others to see, as they may click on your broader profile. Emotional “I’m leaving” message is an early contender.
Content tips:
1) Provide an update that helps others to help you. If you’re sharing a message on LinkedIn while you’re actively searching, give your network guidance about how they can help you. While there’s a temptation to be generic (to keep options open) it makes it much more difficult for people to help you. Where you can, try to be specific.
2) Update your profile photo. This is a powerful way for people to connect with you and to remember you. There are so many tips for a great photo that there are many articles on the topic. Our favorite tip: do not tilt your head in photos. To evaluate your photo, check out Photofeeler.
3) Write or re-write your LinkedIn summary. Your summary is a chance to project what you want to say about your experience and your traits. Consider why you’re sharing specific traits and try to highlight them with a story. Brief accomplishments are useful, but this is more about character.
4) Freelancing for a while? Spotlight what you offer in the Services section of your profile.
5) Get credit for thought leadership. Include articles that showcase your specific knowledge if relevant. It can be a powerful way to get exposure for you knowledge.
Keep engaging with LinkedIn:
1) Consider relevant groups and how you’ll engage with them. This could include industry groups, alumni groups, etc. Being intentional with your participation can save you a tremendous amount of time.
2) Follow influencers in your field. Identify some people who offer great insights or news flow. Follow them.
3) Expand your network. Did you just leave a role? This is a great time to remember all of the people who you connected with in your recent job and connect with them. It can also be helpful to include neighbors, peers in volunteer activities, or other organizations to expand your network.
4) Tag people. When you’re posting on a topic, it is valuable to tag people who might share your interest to raise the visibility of your post. These posts can be professional or share momentum from a community engagement.
5) Schedule updates. This can include profile photo or background photo updates. It keeps your profile fresh for people who are engaging with you.
6) Publish content. Are you looking to expand your visibility? Long-form articles on LinkedIn can be a powerful way to achieve that, particularly if you have novel content to offer.