7 Ways to Get Noticed by Recruiters on LinkedIn

With the digitization of the world, candidates actively looking for jobs on various company websites, job boards and social media platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, etc.

It is interesting to know that 87% of recruiters use LinkedIn to check candidates (Jobvite Recruiter Nation Report 2016). Websites like LinkedIn have almost 740 million members with over 55 million registered companies. (source: kinsta.com)

I am Dr Gaurav Hirey, a Job Search Expert, an active recruitment expert and a Head Coach at Job Boosts. When you’re a candidate looking for a job, having an optimized online profile can help you get closer to your dream job. Here are 7 ways you can use your LinkedIn to get noticed by recruiters.

The summary section on LinkedIn is the best place for you to showcase your skills and achievements. In fact, most recruiters look at it. Use effective storytelling along with keywords to talk more about your experience, interests and skills.

A study conducted by LinkedIn states that profiles that have a profile picture are 21 times more likely to be viewed and 9 times more likely to receive connection request than those without it. It doesn’t have to be professionally clicked but remember to select a picture that has only you. Select a headshot with good lighting that best represents you.

Recruiters and hiring managers screen candidates based on location. You might never come across an opportunity if your location is not mentioned. According to LinkedIn, adding your city or area to your profile boosts your chances of getting noticed by 23 times. That is remarkable, isn’t it! So don’t forget to mention the location you reside in or potentially want to work around.

Mentioning your educational background on your profile might get you 17 times more messages from recruiters according to studies. It is acceptable to leave out your years of graduation if you have been out of school for a long time. If you use this section well, by mentioning the initiatives you took or interests you had, your next job could come to you instead.

Recruiters and hiring managers on LinkedIn screen candidates using the industry they are looking for. It is likely that if you optimize your profile it might show up when recruiters look for candidates in your industry. Apart from that, mentioning your industry on LinkedIn will help you find out and connect with the right job postings, events, articles and connections online.

LinkedIn works on optimization and keywords. Use the skills section that can get you noticed and are also accepted for the jobs that you are looking out for. Skills like negotiation, communication, public speaking etc are examples you can mention on your LinkedIn profile. Mention accomplishments and achievements to demonstrate and add credibility to the work you have done.

An outdated LinkedIn profile will likely have a bad impression on the recruiter. It can show that you are a passive job seeker even though you have been emailing and trying to get closer to your dream job. It is also possible they don’t consider your application or even take your candidacy seriously. Make sure you include what you achieved on your last job along with the title and dates of employment.

Getting noticed by recruiters and hiring managers online is difficult. Especially in a competitive environment like ours, having a strong online presence is important. Make sure you have a strong headline and a summary that best defines your skills, achievements and experiences. Put up an impressive, smiling headshot along with your educational qualification. Don’t forget to mention the industry you work or would want to work in along with the skills, accomplishments and achievements you have had. Lastly, make sure your profile is updated to leave a lasting impression on the recruiters. LinkedIn is the best place to get noticed and look for professional connections. So, keep these steps in mind and don’t forget to write about your success stories to me. I wish you the best!