Are you ready to take the leap to find your dream job? Look no further than LinkedIn, the powerhouse platform. Beyond its reputation as a social networking platform, it’s a hub where companies actively promote job openings. In today’s dynamic job market, the age-old saying “it’s not what you know but who you know” rings truer than ever. LinkedIn’s professional networking capabilities are invaluable. But here’s the catch: standing out amidst the sea of profiles requires finesse, strategy, and a touch of creativity.

That’s where Salexo steps in. With our insider knowledge, we’re here to guide you through the art of crafting an irresistible LinkedIn profile. Let’s dive into our top tips:

Include a headshot photo

While we appreciate that looks don’t matter, being professional does. A polished headshot exudes professionalism and sets the tone for your profile. Save the snapshots with your furry friend for Instagram; on LinkedIn, opt for a crisp, high-quality image that commands attention.

You don’t need to pay for a professional photo shoot, but ensure that your photo represents you in a positive light.

Focus on your headline

On your LinkedIn profile, you’ll see your headline right below your name. If you choose to leave it blank, the system fills it with your current position. While this is professional enough, it’s not necessarily eye-catching. Firstly, consider your target audience. Who are you most hoping to network with? Is it employers, other industry professionals, or even customers for your enterprise?

LinkedIn gives you 120 characters for the headline, so get creative and make it interesting. Much like your photo, your headline forms part of the first impression you make. So, make sure you stand out from the crowd.

Consider using keywords

While keywords are often more of a consideration in the digital marketing field, having some basic knowledge of how they work in online searches is helpful. A keyword is essentially a word or phrase that people are likely to search for. Marketing experts try to rank well for keywords (searches) that a target audience is most likely to use on Google. The same principle applies to LinkedIn’s search functions.

Employers seeking experienced sales professionals often rely on common job titles as search terms, effectively acting as keywords. Therefore, it’s important to include relevant sales job titles in your history. Equally important is using keywords related to certain skills or qualifications, as people often search for these, too.

Use background images

Anyone who has created a social media profile before is probably familiar with background images—those subtle yet impactful visuals behind your profile picture. Much like the customisation options on platforms such as Facebook and Twitter, LinkedIn offers you the chance to infuse your profile with a touch of personal flair. Choose a background image that resonates with you while ensuring it reflects your professional identity.

LinkedIn isn’t just about text – it’s a multimedia platform. In addition to photos, you can enrich your profile with videos and other forms of media. Consider adding a brief introductory video to give viewers a glimpse into who you are beyond the confines of your resume. It’s a powerful tool for making a memorable impression and setting yourself apart from the crowd.

Make your summary engaging

Aside from the more visual elements used to catch people’s attention, your summary is where you can really sell yourself. Think of it like a cover letter for your dream job. Make sure you include information about your experience, passions, skills, qualifications and more. Remember our tip about keywords? This is where you should include them.

The most important thing is to make it engaging. Salexo can offer personalised assistance in this area, but it’s ideal if the summary really sounds like you. It’s your chance to tell your future professional network who you are, so keep it interesting and capture your audience’s attention.

Include all industry qualifications

Finally, it’s crucial to include all of your relevant qualifications on your profile. Many people skip this, thinking that the short courses they’ve attended aren’t relevant. On the contrary, a wide range of qualifications shows that you prioritise professional development. Some employers may even search for candidates with a specific industry qualification. So, make sure you include all of yours.

Need help finding your dream sales job?

Building an effective LinkedIn profile is a key part of your job search journey. Whether you’re just starting out or an experienced sales professional looking for your next career move, we’re here to help. Salexo offers expert consulting for both candidates and employers. Whether it’s providing help crafting your LinkedIn profile or matching you with an ideal vacancy, you can count on us. Contact our friendly team today to find out how we can help you.