experience expertise

How to build a unique LinkedIn profile

Man scrolling on a smartphone

Lee Blackburn, Head of Recruitment at emagine UK and emagine Netherlands

A well-curated LinkedIn profile can give you an edge in today’s crowded market. If you do it well, you create a digital uniqueness that lifts your career.

Are you ready to stand out in the competitive job market? Having a strong LinkedIn profile can make all the difference! Don’t worry if you’ve faced rejection; it’s a chance to learn and grow. That’s why I offer my support and share some helpful tips through this blog.  

As a piece of general advice, you must craft a distinctive profile showcasing your strengths and top expertise, using relevant keywords that resonate with your professional networks. If you do it well, you create a digital uniqueness. And let’s not forget us recruiters; knowing how to engage with them can be a game-changer for you!  

Optimising your LinkedIn profile

It’s all about crafting your digital identity. In the bustling world of LinkedIn, your profile picture is your virtual handshake. Imagine entering a room full of potential employers, each eager to get to know you. What does your LinkedIn profile text, picture and engagement say about you? 

Craft a distinctive profile showing your strengths and top expertise, and remember to use relevant keywords that resonate with your professional networks.

Turn the spotlight on yourself

A professional yet expressive photo can be the key to unlocking doors. Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. And here’s a pro tip: opt for a sharp photo, avoid blurriness, and ensure it’s a solo shot. After all, we’re hiring you, and you deserve the spotlight. 

Tell your unique story

Building a personal brand is not just about the skills listed on your profile; it’s about storytelling. Networking and positioning are the threads that weave this narrative. What are you doing? What makes you unique? Where have you added value? Certifications, education, and courses become the strokes that paint this picture, showcasing your commitment to continuous learning and upskilling. 

Get references and referrals

Don’t forget the power of references. Recruiters love to see feedback from your ex-line managers. It’s like a trust seal on your professional character.

Be active on LinkedIn and engage in groups and discussions in your newsfeed. Dedicate some time to be proactive with topics that resonate with your interests. Your engagement is the ink that writes your story on this digital canvas, making you memorable and preferred. 

Connecting with people on LinkedIn isn’t just a click; it’s a conversation. If you join, say something meaningful. Remember, this isn’t Facebook; it’s a networking platform. Referrals are golden – massively well-received, increasing your chances of being remembered. After all, people love people. 

Be mindful and professional

As you navigate this space, avoid getting entangled in political conversations. While organic discussions are encouraged, remember that anything you comment on is public and stays online.  

Maintaining professionalism and respect will ensure your brand remains intact. 

Building a personal brand is not just about the skills listed on your profile; it's about storytelling. Networking and positioning are the threads that weave this narrative.

How to use keywords and your network

Have you ever felt like your resume disappears into a vast void? Let’s break through the black hole with the magic of keywords on LinkedIn. Think of them as breadcrumbs leading recruiters straight to your door. 

Your LinkedIn profile is not just a digital resume; it’s a dynamic narrative waiting to be explored. Sprinkle keywords with relevant and recently used skills throughout your journey, making it an inviting path for potential employers to follow. 

Open to Work?

Searching for a job is an art in and of itself. Make your contact details available. If you’re open to job opportunities, let it be known. Utilise the “Open to Work” badge; it’s a clear way of saying, “I’m available!” Also, try to showcase your requirements on your profile or when opening yourself to recruiters; it shortens those qualification calls to find common ground. 

Set up your notifications

But the exploration doesn’t stop there. Imagine a treasure hunt where you set up filters and alerts, keeping an eye on companies you’re interested in. LinkedIn’s job section is your hunting ground; you can unearth hidden gems with suitable filters.

Use your network

Do you know somebody at the company?  

Leverage connections to gain insights and potentially secure referrals. Networking is a powerful tool in job search, providing valuable information and increasing your chances of standing out. 

Man scrolling on a smartphone

How to reply to recruiters?

As you embark on this digital journey, having conversations becomes the heart of it. Recruiters are the guides, and your responses are the echoes that resonate. Picture a recruiter reaching out-how do you respond? 

Remember to make a human and personal approach, not a generic AI-generated response. 

Respond promptly

Swift responses matter, but more than that, it’s about building a connection. Respond promptly, even if it’s to ask for more time. If a position isn’t the right fit, communicate this politely with constructive feedback. Your LinkedIn inbox is not just a notification; it’s an opportunity knocking. 

If you need more time to get back, say so. Transparency fosters understanding, and recruiters appreciate your honesty. If, after careful consideration, you decide a position isn’t for you, articulate your reasons. This not only provides closure but also helps recruiters understand your preferences. 

Enhance your visibility

Send your latest resume to recruiters to enhance visibility. Do your research, set up alerts, and follow relevant hashtags. Stay engaged without getting entangled in sensitive topics. Networking is like a conversation outside; if you connect, say something meaningful.

Connecting with people on LinkedIn isn't just a click; it's a conversation. If you join, say something meaningful, but remember that anything you comment stays online.

Be interested and helpful

Let them know what you are looking for. Be clear about your career goals and aspirations. Suggest when to try again if the current opportunity isn’t the perfect fit. Your proactive approach showcases not just your interest but also your strategic thinking. 

If a recruiter asks, “Do you know anybody?” … Can you help? Offering assistance will always get you remembered. Even if it’s not directly related to the current opportunity, offering assistance establishes you as a collaborative and helpful professional.

Helping others is a small gesture that can leave a lasting impression.

Final remarks

LinkedIn is not just about finding a job; it’s about growing and strengthening your professional connections to build a successful career. 

At emagine, we’re all about building relationships and connecting with experts, and we consider every application and interaction an opportunity to find talents. We offer valuable support, guidance, and feedback for those who don’t make it through the current hiring process or don’t hear back.  

So, make sure to be unique and proactive in your networking efforts.  

Happy connecting! 

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