LinkedIn for Beginners: How to Build a Professional Profile

Are you looking for a new way to network and build connections with other professionals? LinkedIn may be the perfect platform for you! In this blog post, we will walk you through the steps of setting up your LinkedIn profile. We'll cover everything from creating a custom URL to adding keywords to your profile. By following these simple tips, you can create a professional profile that will help you stand out from the competition.

If you're ready to get started, let's jump right in!

The first step is to create a custom URL for your LinkedIn profile. This will make it easier for people to find you online. To do this, simply go to your profile settings and click on the "Edit public profile & URL" link. Next, scroll down to the section labelled "Your public profile URL." Here, you can choose a custom URL that reflects your name or brand.

Once you've created a custom URL, it's time to add some keywords to your profile. These keywords will help people find you when they're searching for someone with your skills and experience. To add keywords, go to your profile settings and click on the "Edit profile" link. Next, scroll down to the "Skills & Endorsements" section and click on the "Add skills" button. Here, you can enter up to 50 keywords that describe your skills and experience.

Creating a custom URL and adding keywords to your profile are great ways to make sure your LinkedIn profile stands out. But there are other things you can do to optimise your profile and attract more recruiters or networking contacts. 

Here are a few tips:

• Use a professional headshot as your profile picture.

• Write a clear and concise headline that summarises your skills and experience.

• Use the "Summary" section of your profile to tell your story and highlight your unique value proposition.

• In the "Experience" section, list your current and past roles in reverse chronological order. For each role, include a brief description of your responsibilities and accomplishments.

• In the "Education" section, list any degrees or professional certifications you have earned.

• If you have any publications, presentations, or awards, be sure to add them to your profile as well!

• Write a compelling summary that highlights your skills and experience.

• Use keywords throughout your profile to ensure that you're being found by the right people.

• Keep your profile up to date with your latest experience and education.

• Add publications, presentations, or awards to showcase your expertise.

• Join relevant LinkedIn groups and participate in discussions.

• Reach out to other professionals and build connections.

• Follow companies you're interested in working for and engage with their content.

• Use LinkedIn to research potential employers and learn more about their culture.

• When you're ready to apply for a job, be sure to tailor your resume and cover letter to the specific role.

• Use LinkedIn InMail or messages to reach out to recruiters and hiring managers.

Next, we will talk about how important it is to use keywords throughout different sections of your profile so people can find you easier. Scroll down the same page until you see the "Skills & Endorsements" section and click on "add skills." LinkedIn will then give you a list of skills they think you should add to your profile. You can also add up to 50 of your own keywords in this section as well. Not only is it important to use keywords throughout different sections of your profile, but you should also use them when searching for jobs. job postings 

When you're ready to start applying for jobs, be sure to tailor your resume and cover letter to the specific role. Use LinkedIn InMail or messages to reach out to recruiters and hiring managers. And finally, don't forget to follow companies you're interested in working for and engage with their content! By following these simple tips, you can create a professional LinkedIn profile that will help you stand out from the competition.

If you're looking for more tips on how to optimise your LinkedIn profile, comment down below and we will reply as soon as we can. 

Happy job hunting!