Why it matters:

• Recruiters find candidates using a mix of keywords, job titles, and location—make sure you show up in the right searches.
• Hiring managers are increasingly turning to LinkedIn as a key tool to assess experience and credibility.
• It’s a great way to show your network and experience by showing your who you are connected with in the industries you work.
• Keeping your profile current helps the right opportunities come to you, faster.
• Your network, visibility, and profile activity shape your personal brand.

Recruiters find candidates using a combination of keywords, job titles, and location – so it’s important to make sure you’re showing up in the right searches. Hiring managers are also placing increasing value on LinkedIn, often reviewing profiles before CVs to assess credibility and depth of experience. Many will also look at mutual connections within the industry, making your network a powerful way to demonstrate your reach and relevance. Keeping your profile up to date ensures the right opportunities can find you, while your visibility, activity, and network all contribute to shaping your professional brand.

Strengthen Your Profile

Content & Clarity

• Align your profile with your CV, but be careful around including confidential details depending on your contract.
• Add your current role and highlight any internal promotions; link them to your company page.
• Be clear whether roles are permanent or contract.
• Keep job summaries brief – no more than 150 words – summarising key responsibilities and tangible results (e.g. sales figures, notable clients, growth metrics).
• Ensure your location is accurate to where you work or can commute – don’t default to your company HQ.

About Section:

• Keep your summary concise: 3–5 sentences outlining your key strengths, sectors, and standout achievements.
• Add a personal touch – mention what drives you or what you enjoy outside work.

Keywords & Headline

• Use keywords relevant to your role and industry, including variations (e.g. IoT and “Internet of Things”).
• Include alternative spellings (e.g. monetisation / monetization) to maximise search visibility.
• Your headline should reflect your core skillset or job title (e.g. “Cybersecurity Specialist | SaaS | Pre-Sales Expert”) – keep it short and clear.

Profile Visuals

• Use a professional, up-to-date profile photo.
• Add a relevant banner image that reflects your sector or personal brand.

Increase Visibility & Engagement

Activity & Relationships

• Engage with industry posts, comment thoughtfully, and follow relevant companies.
• Share insights or articles to show you’re active and knowledgeable in your field.
• Build your network – connect with peers, leaders, and others in your industry.
• Ask for introductions and recommendations where appropriate.
• When connecting with network in the industry, add a note where applicable if you have a personal or mutual connection.

Credibility & Consistency

• Request recommendations from former colleagues or managers – they add weight to your profile.
• Ensure your LinkedIn matches your CV – discrepancies can cause concern when reviewed by hiring manager.
• If your company has gone through a name change or acquisition, make that clear in your experience section.