Tips on Updating Your LinkedIn Profile  

If you’re searching for your dream career, increase your chances by updating your LinkedIn profile. Thousands of companies and recruiters leverage LinkedIn every day, making the platform a great place to market yourself, build your professional network, showcase your experience and connect with recruiters.  
 
Before you start searching for your next career or send out connection requests, here are a few important steps and best practices for updating your LinkedIn profile. 

• Update your headline. Your profile includes a headline that appears near your name. It is at the top of your profile and next to your name when your profile appears in the newsfeed. Use your headline to share that you are looking for opportunities and describe the type of position you are looking for.  
• Update your profile information. Make sure your profile is updated with your work history/resume, education information, current location, industry and contact information (an email address works best).  
• Upload a professional profile photo. When looking for a job, you want your LinkedIn profile to be as polished and professional as possible. Consider updating your profile photo with a professional headshot.  
• Gather recommendations from previous employers and colleagues. LinkedIn gives members the ability to collect recommendations and testimonials. Be sure to take the time to ask your previous supervisors and colleagues to recommend you on LinkedIn. 
• Follow companies you want to work for. Follow the company or organization you’re interested in and engage with their content through likes and shares. There’s a chance it will get you noticed by a hiring manager or recruiter, which may help you get your foot in the door.  
• Consider using a custom URL. When you create a profile, LinkedIn automatically assigns you a string of numbers as a URL. However, you should set a custom URL instead. Make sure your URL is easy for you to remember and share.  
• Use your summary wisely. Your summary acts as your elevator pitch. You should use this area on your LinkedIn profile to introduce who you are as a professional, highlight your key skills and leave readers with some call to action (ask them to connect with you to network or ask them to contact you with job opportunities).  
• Customize your invitation requests. On LinkedIn, you can customize your invitation request to explain why you are interested in adding someone to your network. Remember to establish a “warm” connection before you ask for a job referral. 
• Connect with Baylor Scott & White Health and apply to your dream career today! Jobs.bswhealth.org