By Madeline Roberts
Online Career Tips Contributor
If you’re struggling through the job application process, can’t seem to make it to the final round of interviews, or are just starting your job search then keep reading! According to Inc.com, corporate jobs receive an average of 250 applications but only four to six will be called for an interview. You don’t need the luck of the Irish to land one – just a well-crafted social media profile.
In the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day, these tips will ensure that your LinkedIn profile is professional, comprehensive, and makes you shine like the gold at the end of a rainbow.
Go easy on the Guinness. There’s nothing wrong with enjoying a tall glass but save the pictures of you swigging beer for another time. Your LinkedIn profile is not the place to show off your drinking skills. Find out if your employer offers headshots and if not, find a talented friend or co-worker to capture you at your best. Don’t opt for the blurry or cropped photo.
Erin go Bragh about yourself. Showoffs get a bad name but if there’s one place to boast your accomplishments, it’s on LinkedIn. You can upload documents and include links to projects in the Summary and Experience sections, which lets hiring managers see what you’re capable of and could give you a better chance at getting a call for an interview.
Potayto Potahto. The real St. Patrick wasn’t even Irish! While he spent the majority of his life in Ireland, St. Patrick didn’t overlook his British background. When people find you on LinkedIn or see a request to connect, they want to get a sense of the real you. Your profile should indicate your previous work experience and education, and even your interests outside of work. You may not include volunteering on your resume if it isn’t applicable to the job but if it speaks to your character and integrity then LinkedIn is the perfect spot to record it.
What’s your corned beef and cabbage? It’s a meal commonly associated with the Irish so ask yourself, “What do people think of when they hear my name?” Using the Skills & Endorsements section is another way to highlight your experience and tell people what you want to be known for. Keep these professional because as amazing as you might be at finding four-leaf clovers in an open field, it’s unlikely to be a requisite job skill. You can sort these skills by the number of endorsements or put them in order of your specialties.
No blarney stone left unturned. Isn’t it frustrating when you can’t find your car keys? You know they’re out there somewhere but you just can’t locate them. That’s how hiring managers feel when they can’t find you on LinkedIn. While you may want to prevent certain activities from being made public, don’t hide your entire profile. It helps to legitimize you as a candidate and gives you the chance to provide more details than a resume and cover letter alone can convey.
An updated LinkedIn profile is just the first step. Read more about preparing for an interview so when you meet with a potential employer, you’ll have that job in the bagpipe.
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