Using social media to determine a candidate’s competency has always been a controversial idea. Nevertheless, job seekers have had an escape route from this since the 2003 launch of LinkedIn, a “business and employment orientated” social media platform. With this, users have a way to deter potential employers from viewing their private and personal photos and information.
So, why do people still refuse to use it?
The problem here is that most social media users view LinkedIn with the same perspective as Facebook. However, LinkedIn is not a place to share your every thought – it is a platform for sharing topics of discussion related to the industry you are interested in.
Users tend to not like the idea of people Googling them and believe that abstaining from social media use all together gets rid of the problem. However, whether or not you like the idea, employers look for a candidate’s online presence before even considering them for an interview. Not having any form of social media will immediately lessen your chances at furthering your career. YouGov, an online polling system, revealed that 48% of recruiters check an applicants LinkedIn, with 46% checking Facebook when an applicant does not have LinkedIn. This fact alone should be enough to encourage you to create a professional platform that ensures you will not be dismissed by future employees.
But how do I create a LinkedIn profile?!
Influx recognises that simply making an account is different than creating a great profile that will get you noticed. That is why we have harvested together the best top tips to help you create a profile that will make employers want to hire you.
The first step is to fill your profile completely as soon as you make it. Your account goes live the second you open it, therefore, the sooner you finish it, the more eager (and better) you look. This includes providing a profile photo. This does not have to be a standard passport-style photo. However, if it’s you in action, make sure it’s relevant! Your background should also clutter-free. Remember, it’s you that the employer wants to know about. Following these guidelines guarantees you more of a chance of receiving profile views and messages.
Consider your headline and summary. It should be quick and to the point – around 250 words. Use first-person to make it feel more personal and avoid using stereotypical buzzwords. Treat this profile as a virtual CV. Avoid words and phrases such as hard-working, responsible and driven. Of course you are! That’s why you’re creating a LinkedIn account. So think, what do you have that not everybody else does? That’s what’s going to get you noticed. Using common phrases are not going to help you as businesses have their own buzzwords that they generate within search engines to find their ideal candidate. Discuss your skills in concise bullet points. Back up your skills with evidence through endorsements and anecdotes of previous work.
Next, look at your URL. Creating a personalised URL makes you easy to find and offers the recruiters a perspective of you as a clear and concise individual who is eager to make a name for themselves. For example, https://www.linkedin.com/company/influx-innovative-services-limited/ is easier to find than a random collection of numbers and letters.
Now consider writing your own content! Sharing discussions doesn’t have as much an impression as creating one does. You don’t need to be an amazing writer to produce this. Showing that you have good spelling and grammar is all that is necessary. It also suggests to employers that you want to stand out and be noticed – without using any buzzwords!
If you would like any further help then please call the Influx Team on 0131 331 1500 / 01224 050 600 or email us on hello@influxrecruitment.com
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