Is Your LinkedIn Profile Working for You? Tips From a LinkedIn Profile Specialist

ciararoisinciararoisin
in General

Hi everyone,

A lot of professionals treat LinkedIn like an online CV that they set up once and forget. But recruiters use it as a search engine, and a profile that isn't optimized may never show up in their results, no matter how strong your experience is.

Here are a few things a LinkedIn profile specialist would look at first:

  • Headline: Most people default to their current job title. A stronger headline includes your role, your specialism, and keywords recruiters actually search for.
  • About section: Write it in a natural, first-person voice. Lead with what you do and the value you bring, then add key achievements and skills. Avoid clichés like "passionate team player."
  • Experience: Focus on results, not just duties. Numbers (team size, revenue, savings, growth) make your impact concrete.
  • Skills and keywords: Include terms from job descriptions in your target field, since LinkedIn's search relies heavily on them.
  • Profile photo and banner: A clear, professional photo makes your profile noticeably more likely to be viewed and trusted.
  • Consistency with your CV: Your dates, titles, and achievements should match across both. Mismatches can raise red flags with recruiters.

Some people prefer to do all of this themselves, while others work with a professional to get the wording and keywords right, especially when changing careers or aiming for senior roles.

I'd love to hear from others here:

  1. What changes to your LinkedIn profile made the biggest difference to recruiter interest?
  2. Do you tailor your profile for specific roles, or keep it general?
  3. Has anyone had success with the "Open to Work" feature?

Looking forward to your thoughts!

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