LinkedIn is the platform for job searches and can be used to find candidates for your job openings. It’s also been referred to as the “online resume.”
This social media site is probably the most important platform to be on, if you’re in need of a job or if you are looking for the perfect candidate for your company.
There are countless articles on how to create the most compelling LinkedIn profile, what to publish, what not to publish or the dos and the don’ts on LinkedIn.
In today’s post we are going to focus on what employers really look for on LinkedIn.
A LinkedIn Profile Says Everything
First of all, if you’re a candidate, make sure your resume and LinkedIn profile have the same information, and that they match.
Your experience in a particular field should be backed up by recommendations received from former employers, clients and even colleagues.
The more recommendations you have attesting your expertise, the more likely it is for an employer to contact you for their openings.
It’s important that the employment dates on your resume, the positions you held, job descriptions, education and degrees obtained should be the same as the ones on your LinkedIn profile.
Remember that the slightest difference might be a red flag for a potential employer.
Standing Out is Key
A good way to stand out and prove your expertise as a potential candidate, is to write on a particular theme via the LinkedIn publishing platform (LinkedIn Pulse) – now open to everyone.
Showing that you know what you’re talking about by offering tips and tricks on a certain issue is how you can show a potential employer that what you say in your resume and LinkedIn profile is accurate.
Beyond Education and Experience
A study made by LinkedIn last year revealed employers on LinkedIn go beyond education, skills and experience when looking for candidates.
Instead, here’s what employers look for in candidates:
- Analytical skills
- Strong communications skills
- A passion for creativity
- Knowledge in technology
They want potential employees to integrate in the company’s team, to be able to collaborate with the team and to have leadership skills.
It also goes a long way when an employer has a positive can-do attitude, but also a humbleness and ownership over their errors.
It’s important to be accurate when filling in your LinkedIn profile.
In addition, ask for recommendations from former employers, clients and colleagues, and publish articles on LinkedIn Pulse as a way to prove your expertise in your chosen field.
Network, Network, Network!
LinkedIn is more than an online resume. It’s a great way to network with professionals and potential employers in your field.
Connect with people, share and comment on their content, join groups and interact with as many people as possible.
Your ability to connect with and interact with others is another aspect of what employers look for on LinkedIn. So why not explore the whole potential this platform has to offer.