LinkedIn is a core tool for more recruiters and recruiting firms. It is literally a real-time database of candidates often including information about their job searching intentions. To stand out on this platform, it’s essential to understand the recruiter’s perspective. Before we delve deeper, let’s establish the recruiter’s role in the job search landscape.
The higher the position level, the more specialized talent is required, and the greater the likelihood of leveraging a recruiter. Nearly every CEO search will involve a recruiter, in contract to entry-level positions. Further, the myth of posting a job ad and expecting qualified candidates to flood in is debunked quickly by anyone who’s been on the other side. An overwhelming majority of applications generated through ads are unqualified. Perhaps the biggest myth is that the best candidates will apply for open positions at all. The reality is that unless there is a layoff many of the best candidates are too busy and engaged by their current work to apply for a new job. These “passive candidates” are in many cases the best at what they do. Finding and cultivating passive candidates is a huge part of why companies continue to rely on internal and external recruiters for key positions.
LinkedIn shines as a platform for researching qualified candidates due to its dynamic updates from users, a massive advantage over static resume databases.
Relevance of Experience
- Alignment with Job Roles: One of the first things recruiters assess is how a candidate’s past roles align with the job they’re filling. In an ideal world, recruiters and hiring companies want to see that you’re currently doing a job very similar to the one they are hiring for.
Evidence of Achievement
- Distinguishing Candidates: Awards, recognitions, and significant accomplishments can differentiate candidates. Recruiters value evidence that shows you’ve excelled in your domain.
- Quantifiable Achievements Matter: Generic statements like “improved sales” pale in comparison to “boosted sales by 35% in Q1 2022.” They help recruiters understand not just what you do but that you are good at it.
Profile Completeness and Professionalism
- First Impressions Matter: A complete profile, inclusive of a professional photo, detailed work experience, and education, showcases seriousness about one’s professional image.
- Maintain Professionalism: A well-written, error-free profile indicates attention to detail. Imagine the impact of multiple typographic errors on the profile of a Senior Quality Manager!
Recommendations: Quality over Quantity
- Genuine Testimonies: A well-written recommendation highlighting specific achievements or qualities is far more impactful than generic praise.
- Inference from Recommenders: A recommendation from a senior or well-known professional can help elevate a profile’s credibility.
Network Relevance
- Industry Involvement: Recruiters often gauge a candidate’s industry immersion by checking their connections. Being linked to industry leaders and active professionals can be a positive indicator.
- Mutual Connections: Having mutual connections or being linked to influencers can sometimes facilitate introductions or serve as an implied informal reference.
Engagement with Industry Content
- Showcasing Passion: Engaging in relevant industry discussions, sharing articles, or commenting insightfully on posts demonstrates genuine interest.
- Knowledge Updates: Regular engagement can also showcase that a candidate is up to date with the latest trends, technologies, or discussions in their field.
As you shape your LinkedIn presence, remember your target audience includes both recruiters and the hiring company’s decision-makers. Understand that perspective, the cues we pick up on, and the red flags we want to avoid. Keep in mind that recruiters “thin slice” or skim LinkedIn profiles rather than reading them word for word. Dense, wordy profiles, no matter how beautifully written, often don’t get the attention they might deserve. The focus should be on a clear presentation that showcases genuine achievements. Here’s to creating a LinkedIn presence that resonates and leaves a lasting imprint!
Still not sure how a recruiter sees your LinkedIn profile? Schedule a conversation with me to discuss how to leverage your LinkedIn profile that will get you noticed!
Nick Bliamptis is a recruiter for venture-backed startups and the Founder of ProfileGraderPro.