The other day I reviewed the information a client sent for his resume, including his address on LinkedIn. When I went to LinkedIn to look at his profile, I discovered he had not updated it after leaving his previous job. His LinkedIn profile had him working at a company he had left two years earlier!
Another client who wanted her LinkedIn address included on her resume had not posted a profile at all—just her name and job title. While her desire to include her LinkedIn address was sound, the empty profile simply wasted a recruiter’s time.
Bottom line: if you are going to direct people to your LinkedIn profile, make sure it is up to date, matches your resume and is fully filled out.
Now here is another mistake job seekers make on LinkedIn: They do not use it to network. LinkedIn is a wonderful opportunity to connect with individuals who work in your field, work at companies you are interested in and may have early knowledge of job openings.
How do you get in touch with these people? Comment on their posts, with thoughtful information, questions or referrals. Ask your #1 connections if they know your desired contacts/companies and would introduce you. Join groups that your desired contacts/companies are likely to follow or join.
Finally, job seekers are making a mistake if they believe LinkedIn is a one-way street. Yes, companies will look for potential employees on LinkedIn but job seekers should also be looking for potential companies to join and jobs to apply for. The LinkedIn profile established by companies in your target industry or field contains valuable information about their own achievements, struggles and company culture. This information can help you write a resume that better shows your fit for the job you want.
Robin’s Resumes® is your source for a profile that adds value to your resume and for information on using LinkedIn to your advantage. Contact us today.