LinkedIn is a great way to increase your online presence and improve your employability. Recruiters are increasingly looking at candidates LinkedIn profiles when reviewing applications. The site gives you the opportunity to showcase your skills and experiences, and allows you to expand your professional connections. However, people are making the same mistakes and not getting the most out of the network. Here are 6 things to avoid when using LinkedIn!
1. Don’t just create a profile for the sake of it
Simply having a profile won’t help your employability. Update your profile regularly and add any new skills and experiences, which will increase your visibility on the network. Employers may seek out candidates on LinkedIn who may not have applied for a role. LinkedIn helps to showcase your skills and flag you up to employers. Failing to update your profile will create gaps in your experience and may cause you to miss out on a job opportunity.
2. Don’t upload unprofessional profile pictures
Make sure that your profile picture is professional. A photo from a night out or social event can give the wrong impression to employers. Try and avoid using group photos and ensure that you are wearing professional and appropriate clothing.
3. Don’t post unprofessional content!
It is important to remember that LinkedIn is for connecting with other professionals. Don’t share inappropriate content as it will discourage people from connecting with you. Employers who seek out your profile will be instantly put off if the content on your profile is unprofessional or offensive.
4. Don’t just replicate your CV
A CV is usually limited to two pages. Your LinkedIn profile gives you a great opportunity to expand on the contents of your CV and include skills and experiences that don’t fit into your CV. However, don’t just copy and paste your CV into your LinkedIn profile. Some hiring managers will seek out your profile to gain more insight into your abilities and suitability for a role, so you need to tell them something they don’t already know. Your LinkedIn profile can give an extra push needed to help you land a role.
5. Don’t limit your network
Many people make the mistake of limiting the people they connect with to their colleagues. Although it is important to remain professional on the network it can be helpful to connect with friends and family on the site. Everyone has their own contacts, linking with friends and family can grant you access to a wider network and help you to connect with professionals through your personal acquaintances.
6. Don’t just connect with professionals, interact with them!
LinkedIn is a great way to engage with previous employers and maintain professional relationships. Ask past colleagues to endorse your skills or write you a reference. This will help to improve your profile and make you stand out when employers are reviewing your LinkedIn presence. Try joining in discussions to showcase your knowledge and expand your network. Just remember to remain polite in group discussions and don’t use bad language when engaging with others on the network!
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