Newly unemployed and facing those first steps to get back into the job market? Unemployed for a while and still struggling? Or, working for an employer in the process of “down-sizing” and/or “off-shoring”?
If you find yourself in one of those situations, you’re probably updating your resume, reviewing job postings, networking with former colleagues, and shining up those interview shoes.
However, out of all the tasks you’ll need to prioritize in your job search, building or updating your LinkedIn Profile should be near the top of your list. Here’s why – along with tips to quickly accelerate the process of building a strong Profile:
Why You Should Focus on LinkedIn When Unemployed
Technology is changing the way employers recruit, and that technology and those changes are having a very big impact on job search.
Unlike in the past when a stellar resume was a guarantee of job search success, the whole process is more complex today.
Currently, LinkedIn is at the center of the solution for both job seekers (who need to be professionally visible) and recruiters (who are searching for qualified job candidates).
1 – LinkedIn often serves as your public face.
Like it or not, LinkedIn is among the first websites used by recruiters, employers, former colleagues, or industry insiders to check you out.
Many consider you nearly “invisible” if they don’t find at least a LinkedIn entry for you that reflects your career stature, credentials, education, and work experience. And, being “invisible” is like wearing an “out-of-date” tag today, eliminating you from consideration for many jobs.
2 – Employers spend considerable time “sourcing” candidates from LinkedIn.
You may be surprised to hear that professionals and executives can find you long before you even craft a resume or meet them at a business event.
Given that they’ll be checking you out online (and possibly using outdated information from other sites such as Intelius, Zoominfo, or even places you don’t want them to see, such as Facebook), you’ll need to face reality and get your digital presence ready for scrutiny.
3 – Updating your Profile will put you ahead of the competition.
Don’t forget that other job seekers are likely to find the same opportunities or approach the same hiring managers. When compared to your job-searching competition, a barely filled-in LinkedIn Profile could edge you out.
Instead, take the time to carefully construct a LinkedIn Profile that conveys your competencies and elicits a strong response.
Add a headshot to your Profile, using either a professional photographer or employing a friend to snap a few shots of you in business attire. Fill in the Summary with a more robust version of your achievements – noting what makes you unique among others vying for the same job.
You can also attach rich media (such as a document or video) to the Summary or your Experience section for a dash of attention-getting color.
The Bottom Line
Don’t back-burner the task of polishing your LinkedIn Profile during a new job search. You’ll benefit from the time invested in building a brand-enhancing LinkedIn Profile that conveys your full career story, making you more interesting — and find-able.