In part one of my LinkedIn checklist I spoke about the basic sections that are essential to complete on your LinkedIn profile. In order to put your best self forward you should aim to fill out all sections and not just the basic ones, so below is some advice on completing the rest in order to stand out and impress.
Organizations
If you are or ever have been a member of a club or organization at school or outside then here is the place to mention it. Provide a short description of what you did there. This gives people a greater insight into your personality.
Volunteer experience & causes
The same can be said for volunteer experience & causes. This work can be seen as being just as valuable as paid work. It shows passion and enthusiasm. It is these things that can really set you apart from others in your industry.
Skills and expertise
Don’t sweat the small stuff about having a bunch of endorsements. Employers know half of them are from friends anyway. Use this section to show off skills you have gained throughout your career and education. The more unique and “in demand” the skills are the better, but of course you should not lie either. Mentioning things like Microsoft word, excel, people skills etc. are a little too oblivious. Now a days these skills are already expected of you. Including software and tools you have learnt to use and particular things you have been trained in specific to your industry will stand out more. Order your skills by how impressive they are and not by how many endorsements they have. Add to your skill list as often as you learn a new skill.
Projects
Were you part of a team or assignment at work or in school that generated a great out come? Mention what you did and how you did it here. If you worked as part of a team don’t try to sound like the work was all yours. Show off the fact you’re a team player and work great with others. It’s a highly desired skill by all employers.
Honours and awards
Don’t be shy here; if you were ever awarded with something for outstanding work then do not leave it out. Examples include scholarships and company awards.
Recommendations
A couple of recommendations from previous managers or professors will finish your profile off nicely. Recommendations will only appear to be credible if they come from someone within a company or organization you have already mentioned in your experience. So don’t bother asking your mum.
Groups and Influencers
Join groups and follow influencers that are relevant to your industry, and who you find genuinely interesting to show you like to stay up to date with what is going on.
If you haven’t already, make sure to read my LinkedIn checklist part 1.
Checkout my LinkedIn page here.
