LinkedIn

Having a complete and robust LinkedIn profile—filled with accomplishments and keywords can lead prospective employers to you, even if you are not actively looking for a job. If you are actively looking for a job and have an incomplete profile or even worse, one filled with gaps, mistakes, and misinformation, either way, both scenarios can damage your chances of landing your dream job. StartingBlock Career Services provides a wide range of services for LinkedIn from writing profiles to coaching you on how to use the profile. We want our clients to be industry leaders, build networks on and off LinkedIn, and have LI profiles and first impressions that showcase their qualifications and value to the next employer.  Happy to discuss how we can help you with all your LinkedIn needs.

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4 Things You Can Do TODAY to Improve Your LinkedIn

Improvements to make to get more out of your LinkedIn profile:

1. Make sure the information on your profile is correct, and dates in the experience section align with your resume. Your profile is the “front door” to your LinkedIn account. First impressions matter — so make sure you have made your profile as complete as possible. As an added benefit, your LinkedIn profile generally ranks high in Google search results for your name, so make sure your profile is up-to-date, accurate, and fully populated with information about you.
2. Grow your connections. There are two schools of thought when it comes to LinkedIn connections, so do what makes you the most comfortable. First, you can choose to connect selectively — accepting invitations only from those you know and trust. Or, you can use LinkedIn to grow your network with people you may not personally know, but you have reviewed their profile and are authentically wanting to network. You can connect with people through your college alumni, meet through Groups, and get introduced to people you do not yet know “in real life” by other people you do know.
3. Give to get. Authentic, genuine LinkedIn Recommendations can make or break a LI profile — just like references can for a job candidate. Select a handful of people in your network and write LI Recommendations for them, without asking for one in return. You will be surprised at how many people will reciprocate. Tip: Make sure your Recommendations are specific and detailed. When reading the Recommendation, one should be able to tell exactly who you are recommending and why, plus tell a concise, relevant story. Try to include quantifying accomplishments with percentages, numbers, and dollar amounts, when possible,
4. Start connecting! Think of your LinkedIn profile as a large group gathering. Do not just stand in a corner and watch — start a conversation, connect with people, or post on your profile. Join in and connect with people when you read a great post. Provide insight into your industry as a leader. Engage and watch your network grow.